Niger state
Illegal refineries destroyed by military – Niger state. In the previous week, Operation Delta Safe troops discovered and destroyed 68 illegal refining installations in the Niger Delta.
In addition, the army apprehended 42 suspected oil thieves in the area.
Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media actions, stated this while updating reporters on the actions of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
With the seizure of 234,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 160,800 litres of illegally refined automotive gas oil, and 10,800 liters of premium motor spirit, the forces maintained momentum against crude oil theft in the region.
He went on to say that troops found and destroyed nine dugout pits, 14 boats, 43 storage tanks, two motorcycles, and nine vehicles.
“Also found were 71 cooking ovens, three pump machines, and 37 illegal refining sites.”
“Troops also apprehended 42 suspected oil thieves and other criminal elements,” the officer said.
Buba stated that Operation UDO KA forces in the South East neutralized three criminals, detained nine suspected IPOB/ESN criminals, and freed two kidnapped people.
Among other items discovered by the forces were one AK47 rifle, three FN rifles, one pump action gun, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special, four cartridges, and two magazines.
“All the recovered items, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authorities for further action,” the official said.
The operations’ purpose, he says, is to put an end to terrorism and increase security.