By Victor Akaa.
In a sustained effort to combat illegal refining activities, troops of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have launched a series of operations in Ndokwa, Delta State, and surrounding areas.
The Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma said the crackdown, follows credible intelligence on the scale of criminality in the region.
This has resulted in the dismantling of numerous illegal refining camps and the seizure of significant quantities of crude oil and related equipment.
During the operation, troops confiscated and destroyed eight cooking pots, three storage tanks, three massive storage dugouts, and twelve feeders, among other items. Additionally, they discovered an extensive network of pipes and hoses and over 2,000 litres of crude oil in a metallic oven. Two wooden boats, loaded with condensates estimated to be over 10,000 litres, were also seized and handled by the mandate of Operation DELTA SAFE.
In a related development, troops of the 5 Battalion arrested eight suspects in Rivers State, along the Orashi River, Obiafu in Onne LGA, while conveying condensates estimated to be over 2,000 litres.
Furthermore, troops of the 29 Battalion identified and destroyed nine more illegal refining sites along the Imo River, housing over 15,000 litres of illegally refined products.
The suspects, according to the statement have been handed over to relevant agencies for prosecution.
The Nigerian Army urges members of the public, particularly in adjoining communities, to report any criminal activities to security agencies.
Enugu Reporters noted that the environmental hazards posed by these illegal activities are a significant concern, and the Army remains committed to protecting the region’s ecosystem.
