By Victor Akaa
The Nigerian military has recorded significant successes in its ongoing efforts to curb oil theft and vandalism in the Niger Delta region.
Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, disclosed this in a statement on Friday. He said troops of Operation DELTA SAFE have destroyed 44 illegal refining sites, four dugout pits, 48 boats, and three speedboats in the region.
According to him, the military recovered 602,200 litres of stolen crude oil, 64,900 litres of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO), and 12,690 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), valued at N793,257,250.
Additionally, troops arrested 18 suspected oil thieves and seized various items, including 28 cooking ovens, eight vehicles, one motorcycle, one tricycle, and other equipment used for illegal oil refining.
The military’s efforts to combat oil theft and vandalism aim to safeguard Nigeria’s economy and protect the environment.
General Buba further stated that, across the country, troops neutralized 118 terrorists, arrested 97 suspects, and rescued 96 kidnapped hostages between September 24 and October 1, 2024.
He highlighted some of the military’s successes in various operations conducted between September 24 and October 1, 2024.
In the North East, Operation HADIN KAI neutralized 18 terrorists, arrested 14 suspects, and rescued 42 kidnapped hostages. The military recovered one PKT gun, 14 AK47 rifles, and 349 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.
In the North Central, Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized three violent extremists, arrested 20 suspects, and rescued 14 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered one auto pistol, eight rounds of 9mm ammo, and two motorcycles.
Operation WHIRL STROKE in the North Central arrested 14 violent extremists and rescued two kidnapped hostages. The military recovered one PKM gun, two AK47 rifles, and 363 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.
In the North West, Operation HADARIN DAJI neutralized 36 terrorists, arrested three suspects, and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 14 AK47 rifles, nine dane guns, and 567 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA arrested 10 violent extremists and rescued two kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered two vehicles, one motorcycle, and 14 mobile phones.
General Buba said the military remains committed to ensuring the protection of citizens and property and preventing illegal activities in all theatres of operations.
