NAF Confirms Strike on Illegal Oil Sites, Pledges to Verify Claim on Local Distillery
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced that its airstrikes successfully targeted and disrupted several illegal crude oil refining sites deep within the creeks of the Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State.
The operation, part of ongoing counter-oil theft missions, aims to curb economic sabotage and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region.
According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF aircraft identified active illegal refining sites near Owaza. The location, which was completely isolated and concealed within a densely forested area without visible human activity, was confirmed through credible intelligence and aerial surveillance.
The aircrew engaged the targets with precision, effectively neutralizing the sites and halting the ongoing illegal operations.
Following the operation, the NAF’s attention was drawn to a claim by a group alleging that the airstrikes mistakenly affected a local gin distillery in Umuebele, though the group reported no casualties.
The NAF has responded by stating it will “verify this situation” in line with its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP). The Service reaffirmed its commitment to international best practices, transparency, and accountability, emphasizing its dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
The statement concluded that the NAF remains focused on its constitutional mandate, ensuring its operations are intelligence-driven, precise, and conducted with utmost regard for civilian safety.
