By Victor Akaa.
Troops of the 6 Division Nigerian Army (NA) have achieved significant milestones in its ongoing anti-illegal bunkering operations, with multiple successful raids across the region.
The troops have deactivated over 15 illegal refining sites, arrested 10 suspects, and dismantled 30 cooking pots, intercepting 11 vehicles and several boats.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, troops recovered over 115,000 liters of stolen crude and various other products. The operation also yielded several ancillary items used for economic sabotage.
In Rivers State, troops intercepted a truck loaded with 40,000 liters of stolen crude near SIAT Farm, Elele, and deactivated three illegal refining sites at Sankri, Okrika LGA, recovering 26,500 liters of stolen products. Additional successes were recorded at Dapama in Bille general area, Degema LGA, where over four illegal refining sites were taken out.
Troops also identified and destroyed several illegal refining sites, makeshift structures, and wooden boats around Okoloma, Obuzor, and Ukwa Creeks. Four suspects were arrested with over 4,000 liters of stolen condensates in a Toyota Camry at Ebocha, OB II, and Obiafu Ndoni.
He said the operation extended to Bayelsa State, where active illegal refining sites were deactivated in Nembe LGA, recovering over 2,800 liters of stolen product. In Delta State, a trailer siphoning crude from an oil pipeline was intercepted, with two persons arrested.
In Akwa Ibom State, troops seized three drums of premium motor spirit suspected to be smuggled to a neighboring country.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma however stated that the Nigerian Army remains committed to combating economic sabotage and ensuring national security.
