Latest Crackdown: Troops Dismantle 13 Illegal Oil Bunkering Sites in Niger Delta

Niger Delta News: 15 Suspects Arrested in Major Oil Bunkering Operation

Between January 20 and 26, 2025, troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, intensified their operations against oil theft in the Niger Delta region, achieving significant successes. They dismantled 13 illegal oil bunkering sites, demobilized four boats, and arrested 15 suspects involved in oil theft activities. Additionally, over 150 locally made ovens used for illegal refining were deactivated, and more than 300,000 liters of stolen petroleum products were recovered.

In Edo State, during a routine anti-illegal bunkering patrol, troops raided a vandalized pipeline point at Ugo Community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, uncovering a large reservoir containing 252,000 liters of stolen crude oil. Further searches in the area led to the recovery of pumping machines, hoses, and pipes used in the illicit operation.

In Delta State, specifically in Asade Community, Ethiope West Local Government Area, troops intercepted a red 30,000-liter capacity DAF tanker truck without a license plate, siphoning crude oil from a pipeline belonging to PAN Ocean Nigeria Limited in the Ovade area. It was discovered that over 15,000 liters of stolen crude had already been siphoned before the truck was seized.

In Rivers State, operations along the Imo River corridor resulted in the confiscation of over 10,000 liters of stolen products from various locations, including Lekuma, Abiama, and Oyigbo. Additionally, an illegal refining site was uncovered along the Odagwa axis of the Imo River waterways. Troops also raided an active camp in the Owaza general area, where the suspects fled upon sighting security forces. A follow-up operation in the area led to the recovery of a pump-action gun.

In Bayelsa State, troops dismantled two illegal refining sites at Isonogbene in Brass Local Government Area, recovering over 5,000 liters of stolen crude oil.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended the troops for their efforts in curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism. He reaffirmed that the days of economic saboteurs were numbered and urged those involved in illegal activities to embrace legitimate means of livelihood or face the full force of the law.