By Victor Akaa
In a bold move to combat oil theft and economic sabotage, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its aerial surveillance and strike operations in the Niger Delta region.
According to NAF Spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe conducted a comprehensive reconnaissance mission on July 18, 2024, along the Kolo Creek and Soku-Sambarth trunklines in Rivers State.
The NAF aircraft scanned the pipeline corridors, identifying and destroying six canoes laden with stolen oil products. The crew also detected and obliterated eight active illegal refining sites, including one with over 300 sacks of pilfered oil.
During the mission, the crew observed a leak at the midpoint of the Kolo Creek trunkline, with suspected oil company staff attempting to fix the leakage. No illegal activities were observed at the end of the line. However, on their return journey, the crew destroyed six canoes loaded with suspected stolen oil products.
Additionally, the crew spotted eight active illegal refining sites with overhead tanks and one with over 300 sacks of suspected stolen oil products at Obenibokiri, a settlement 15 km away from Port Harcourt. These sites were effectively destroyed.
This decisive action is part of the NAF’s renewed efforts to combat crude oil thieves, pipeline vandals, and economic saboteurs in the region. By taking the fight to the criminals, the NAF aims to protect the nation’s oil assets, ensure energy security, and support the economic development of the Niger Delta, Enugu Reporters gathered.
The statement urges law-abiding citizens to collaborate with security agencies to curb the activities of these economic saboteurs. With public support, the NAF is confident in its ability to checkmate oil thieves and restore peace and prosperity to the region.
