In a major breakthrough against oil theft, Nigerian forces dismantled 21 illegal refineries and arrested 23 suspects in the Niger Delta.
Over 120,000 litres of stolen crude were recovered as authorities intensify efforts to protect national assets and curb economic sabotage.
Troops operating under the Nigerian military’s Operation Delta Safe have recorded major successes in their continued clampdown on oil theft and criminality in the Niger Delta region. Over the past week, the operatives uncovered and dismantled 21 illegal refining sites while arresting 23 suspects involved in oil theft and other crimes.
This was revealed on Friday in Abuja during a media briefing by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye. He said the operation reflects the military’s unwavering commitment to curbing illegal bunkering and associated economic sabotage.
According to Kangye, the troops maintained an aggressive tempo across key flashpoints, resulting in the recovery of large quantities of stolen crude and refined products. Specifically, they recovered 121,035 liters of stolen crude oil, 19,650 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 7,140 liters of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
In addition to seizing petroleum products, the troops also destroyed essential infrastructure used in illegal refining. These include 25 crude oil cooking ovens, 32 dugout pits, 40 storage tanks, 28 drums, and 19 boats used for transporting stolen products. The operation also led to the recovery of several tools and mobility items, including outboard engines, pumping and drilling machines, pipes, horses, tricycles, motorcycles, nine vehicles, and multiple mobile phones.
General Kangye further disclosed that in the course of anti-kidnapping and criminality operations between June 7 and 8, troops acted swiftly on intelligence and stormed criminal hideouts in Okigwe and Aniocha local government areas in Imo and Delta States, respectively. During the operations, two suspects were captured, and a kidnapped victim was successfully rescued. Weapons, ammunition, phones, and motorcycles were also seized from the suspects.
In a related development, between June 6 and 10, nine more suspects were arrested in multiple locations across Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta states. The arrests took place in areas such as Okirika, Etche, and Akuku-Toru in Rivers State; Ogbia in Bayelsa; and Aniocha North in Delta State. These individuals were allegedly involved in vandalism and other criminal activities, undermining regional security and economic stability.
Kangye emphasized the importance of continuous collaboration between the armed forces and local communities in ensuring the success of security operations. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and supportive, noting that community cooperation remains a critical component in winning the fight against insecurity.
“As we remain resolute in tackling oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and violent crime, we appeal to Nigerians to support the armed forces. When we unite and take ownership of our national security challenges, we can build a safer and more prosperous future for all,” Kangye stated.
The Defense Headquarters reiterated that the military would sustain its momentum and respond decisively to all threats across the country. With operations like these, the armed forces aim to restore peace, protect national assets, and reinforce public confidence in government institutions.
