By Victor Akaa
In a significant blow to oil thieves and economic saboteurs, the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe has intensified its campaign against illegal oil refining sites in the Niger Delta region.
According to Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), a recent operation conducted near Obuzor and Okoloma has achieved remarkable success.
The operation, carried out by NAF aircraft, employed precision airstrikes to target 13 illegal refining sites, 10 overhead tanks, and a tipper truck hidden in difficult terrain along the Imo River.
According to the statement, the airstrikes resulted in the destruction of numerous gallons of illegally refined products and the incapacitation of the refining sites.
“Several overhead tanks connected to reservoirs as well as numerous gallons were also destroyed in the process. In all 13 illegal sites, 10 overhead tanks and several gallons of illegally refined products were effectively destroyed.”
In a related development, a 6-tyre tipper truck and four canoes loading illegal products were spotted along the riverbank. After a thorough scan, the aircraft attacked and destroyed the truck and canoes, dispersing the criminals in the process.
The NAF patrol team also conducted a thorough surveillance of the Trans Niger Pipeline, covering key points with no unusual activity observed.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has commended the Air Component for their unwavering commitment to curbing the activities of oil thieves in the Niger Delta Region.
This operation demonstrates the NAF’s resolve to protect the nation’s economic assets and ensure regional security.
