In a determined effort to combat illegal oil refining activities, troops of the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have launched a series of operations targeting illegal refining sites along the fringes of the River Niger, bordering Ndokwa East and Ndoni Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Delta and Rivers States.
The operation, which was based on credible intelligence, led to the destruction and confiscation of various items used in the illicit refining activities. These included eight cooking pots, three storage tanks, three massive storage dugouts, twelve feeders, and over 2,000 litres of crude oil stored in a metallic oven. Additionally, two wooden boats carrying an estimated 10,000 litres of condensates were also seized.
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During the operation, troops of the 5 Battalion arrested eight suspects along the Orashi River in Onne LGA, Rivers State. The suspects were apprehended while transporting over 2,000 litres of condensates on motorcycles. Meanwhile, troops of the 29 Battalion destroyed nine more illegal refining sites along the Imo River, which housed over 15,000 litres of illegally refined products.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations emphasized the significance of these actions, stating, “The operation was conducted following credible intelligence on the monumental level of criminality going on in the area. We are committed to denying these criminal elements the freedom of action and protecting the environment from the hazards they cause.”
The public, especially those in communities near these illegal activities, are urged to report any suspicious activities to security agencies. “The environmental hazards caused by these criminals are worrisome, and we must all work together to end this menace,” Lt. Col. Danjuma added.