By Victor Akaa
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a significant blow to oil thieves and terrorists in the Niger Delta and Niger State, respectively.
In a coordinated operation, the Air Component of Operation DELTA SAFE destroyed three illegal refining sites with seven overhead tanks in Wilcourt, Rivers State, and arrested five suspected oil thieves fleeing the area.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information NAF, said on Sunday NAF also eliminated terrorists in Munya LGA, Niger State, who were rustling cattle and terrorizing communities.
According to Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet, the NAF deployed its air assets to scan the areas and intercepted the criminals, destroying their equipment and arresting suspects.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with ground troops, ensuring a comprehensive approach to combating criminal activities.
“In Wilcourt, a riverine settlement within the creeks of Niger Delta region becoming notorious for illegal oil activities, the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe sighted and destroyed 3 Illegal Refining Sites (IRS) with a total number of 7 overhead tanks concealed under thick mangrove vegetation. About 5 Km downstream, 4 boats were also sighted moving southwards with suspected illegally refined products. The boats were subsequently attacked and destroyed. While heading back, the crew spotted a speed boat with 5 suspected oil thieves fleeing the area.
Upon sighting the aircraft, the criminals increased speed, hoping to evade the aircraft. The air component then pursued the speedboat until they arrived at the blocking zone of ground troops where they were arrested.”
The successes recorded in these operations demonstrate the NAF’s commitment to protecting the nation’s resources and ensuring the safety of citizens.
The Air Force’s modern technology and hardware have proven effective in detecting and deterring criminal activities, outsmarting oil thieves and terrorists who have tried to evade detection.
The NAF’s efforts have received positive feedback from locals, who have recovered rustled cattle and returned to their livelihoods. The operation is a testament to the military’s dedication to combating economic sabotage and terrorism, ensuring a safer and more secure Nigeria.
