Troops dismantle 19 illegal refineries, thwart oil theft worth N291 million.
The forces of Operation Delta Safe have intensified their endeavors to combat economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, successfully dismantling 19 clandestine oil refining sites and preventing crude oil theft valued at over N291 million in the past week.
As reported by Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, the troops obliterated 18 crude oil distillation ovens, 32 excavation pits, 21 storage tanks, 17 drums, and 16 boats utilized by oil thieves. Furthermore, they seized 201,345 liters of stolen crude oil, 29,730 liters of illicitly refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 1,759 liters of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
During the operations, 42 alleged oil thieves were apprehended, with weapons, explosives, and various equipment, including pumping machines, drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, and 13 vehicles, recovered.
Several kidnapped hostages were also liberated during these missions.
Additionally, in Rivers and Delta States, troops apprehended a notorious cult leader, Prince Johnson Ishirim (alias Commander Junior), along with 13 other suspected kidnappers. They were apprehended in Ahoada East, Oshimiri, Warri South, and Ukwani LGAs, with weapons and vehicles confiscated from the suspects.
In Bayelsa State, 28 oil thieves and several drug dealers were captured in a raid on a criminal hideout in Southern Ijaw LGA.
In the South East, troops of Operation Udoka neutralized two suspected IPOB/ESN members, detained 14 others, and rescued six abducted victims during raids in Anambra, Abia, and Imo States.
In a separate intelligence-driven operation in Udi LGA, Enugu State, troops rescued two kidnapped victims on July 14. A suspected IPOB/ESN tax collector was detained in Ihiala LGA of Anambra State, with N1.5 million in extorted funds recovered.
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with air components and local security forces, conducted extensive operations across Borno and Yobe States. Several Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were neutralized, while others, including women and children, surrendered.
Operations in towns such as Bama, Gwoza, Kukawa, and Konduga yielded substantial results.
Eleven collaborators were apprehended, seven kidnapped victims were rescued, and arms, ammunition, and IEDs were recovered. A logistics supplier, Shaibu Bulama (65), was detained in Yobe State while receiving suspicious consignments.
Troops of Operation Fasin Yamma and Operation Safe Haven executed coordinated raids in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, and Katsina States. Multiple terrorists were eliminated, nine detained, and seven abducted individuals rescued. In Sokoto’s Sabon Birni LGA, three suspected arms dealers were captured with nine AK-47 rifles and 450 rounds of ammunition.
Police dismantle human trafficking syndicates in Enugu, Anambra, Ondo. Troops also intercepted a vehicle with bullet holes in Plateau State, recovering weapons, a vehicle, and N13.7 million in cash after two suspects attempted to bribe their way through a checkpoint.
Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke neutralized terrorists in Taraba and Benue States, arrested 13 suspects, rescued five hostages, and seized weapons, motorcycles, and quantities of suspected cannabis and illicit drugs during raids across Kogi and Nasarawa States.
Major General Kangye reaffirmed the military’s commitment to overcoming threats, restoring peace, and safeguarding national unity. He urged the public to remain vigilant, collaborate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious activities.
“The support of Nigerians and the media is crucial to mission success,” Kangye declared. “We remain committed to transparency and accountability as our operations continue.”
