The Nigerian Army has launched a successful operation to combat crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. The operation, which took place from March 17 to March 23, 2025, resulted in the destruction of 19 illegal refineries and the arrest of 12 suspects.
The operation was carried out by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with other security agencies. The troops focused on intelligence-driven actions in several communities across Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states.
A significant portion of the operation was conducted in Rivers State, where troops intercepted a tanker loaded with 60,000 liters of stolen crude oil. The driver abandoned the truck and fled, leaving behind multiple license plates.
The operation also targeted illegal bunkering camps in Rivers and Bayelsa states. Troops destroyed several illegal refining sites, recovering over 25,000 liters of stolen crude and 850 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil.
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In Delta State, troops intercepted an illegal bunkering truck loaded with over 20,000 liters of stolen crude. A second truck was also found in the area, waiting to be loaded with additional stolen products.
The operation also resulted in the recovery of 138,000 liters of stolen petroleum products. All arrested suspects have been handed over to the relevant authorities for prosecution.
The General Officer Commanding the 6th Division, Nigerian Army, Maj. General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended the troops for their efforts. He urged them to intensify operations to combat crude oil theft and deny criminals the freedom to operate.
