Troops from the 6 Division, along with other security agencies, have ramped up operations against oil theft, leading to the destruction of 32 artisanal refineries and the seizure of over 60,000 litres of stolen crude oil. The operations, which took place from January 6 to 12, 2025, targeted various locations across Rivers State and surrounding areas.
In Rivers State, operations were conducted around the Bille area in Degema Local Government Area, where seven illegal refining sites were destroyed, and over 20,000 litres of stolen crude were recovered. Two wooden boats linked to the illicit activities were also seized.
Along the Imo River stretch, troops deactivated 10 illegal refining sites, recovering over 19,000 litres of stolen oil. These operations spanned several areas, including Asa, Okoloma, Ukwa, Ozaa, Abiama, Obuzor, Ukwa, and Oyigbo.
In Etche Local Government Area, three boats filled with more than 12,000 litres of stolen crude were intercepted, and three suspects were arrested in connection with the theft.
Further operations in Nkisa, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, led to the dismantling of an illegal refinery containing over 1,200 litres of refined automotive gas oil and sacks of crude oil. Additionally, on Ndoni road, a Toyota bus was intercepted, carrying 18 sacks of stolen condensates, estimated at over 1,200 litres.
In the Buguma area of Asari-Toru Local Government Area, two illegal refining sites were destroyed, and a small wooden boat carrying 1,500 litres of stolen crude was seized. Five oil theft suspects were arrested and handed over to the appropriate authorities.
These operations reflect a continued effort by security forces to tackle illegal oil refining and theft in the region.
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