Troops of the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified their anti-crude oil theft operations across the Niger Delta, arresting 28 suspected oil thieves and recovering more than 290,000 litres of stolen petroleum products within two weeks.
In a statement issued by Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, the coordinated operations were carried out between October 6 and 19, 2025, across Rivers, Abia, Delta, and Bayelsa States, leading to the shutdown of four illegal refining sites.
According to the statement, several successful raids were recorded in Rivers State. At Okrika Local Government Area (LGA), troops intercepted two wooden boats siphoning Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from a vessel, along with two others transporting over 33,000 litres of stolen products. Another seizure involved a boat carrying 5,000 litres of illicit fuel.
In Elele Alimini, Emohua LGA, troops, acting on intelligence, impounded a tanker (Rivers JJN 287 ZU) suspected of conveying 90,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. The driver and his assistant were subsequently arrested. Additionally, at Okolomade, Abua/Odual LGA, security operatives recovered 2,600 litres of illegally refined diesel.
In Abia State, troops on patrol along the Imo River dismantled two illegal refining sites in Obuzor and Asa Asa, Ukwa West LGA, seizing three drum pots, three receivers, and 2,500 litres of stolen crude oil. At the Orashi River waterside, two wooden boats loaded with 700 litres of kerosene were intercepted, leading to the arrest of six suspects.
Similarly, in Delta State, intelligence-led operations around the PAN Ocean Pipeline corridor in Ethiope East LGA resulted in the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of vandalized pipes, hoses, and multiple vehicles—including a Peugeot 406, Toyota Camry, Toyota Jeep, and a lorry van—loaded with 1,650 litres of stolen products. Troops also pursued and dislodged other fleeing suspects from the area.
Meanwhile, joint security efforts in Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom States have been intensified, combining kinetic and non-kinetic measures to restrict the activities and mobility of oil thieves.
Lt. Col. Danjuma reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding national petroleum assets, stressing that ongoing operations reflect a strong resolve to eliminate crude oil theft and illegal refining across the Niger Delta region.
He assured Nigerians that the Army will sustain pressure on oil vandals to protect the nation’s economy and preserve its vital resources.