– Nigerian Army’s Anti-Bunkering Operations
– Crackdown on Oil Theft in Niger Delta
– Illegal Refining Sites Dismantled in Nigeria
In a concerted effort to combat oil theft, the Nigerian Army has identified and dismantled 11 illegal bunkering facilities across Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States. These operations, conducted between April 7 and 13, 2025, led to the arrest of 28 suspects and the recovery of over 72,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
Key Operations:
– Rivers State: Troops disrupted attempts to establish new refining hubs in Joinkrama 4 Forest, Ahoada West LGA, seizing welding equipment and newly constructed drums. Additionally, raids in Degema LGA led to the arrest of suspects attempting to compromise oil facilities.
– Delta State: Security forces intercepted vehicles transporting over 35,000 litres of stolen products along the Koko–Obitigbo road. In Sapele LGA, an illegal bunkering camp was uncovered, containing refined products and equipment used for illicit refining.
– Bayelsa State: Operations in Yenagoa LGA resulted in the deactivation of multiple illegal refining sites and the recovery of thousands of litres of stolen crude oil.
– Akwa Ibom State: Troops intercepted jerricans filled with illegally refined products during routine checks along the Okobo–Uyo road.
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, commended the troops for their dedication and reiterated the Army’s commitment to eradicating economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.
