The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division launched a series of successful operations against illegal oil bunkering and refining activities in the Niger Delta region between February 17 and 23, 2025. These operations, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, targeted illegal refining sites, illicit transportation networks, and individuals suspected of involvement in these criminal activities. The operations spanned across Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta states, resulting in the destruction of 18 illegal refining sites, the seizure of 10 boats used in the illicit trade, and the apprehension of 17 suspects. The operations also led to the recovery of over 25,000 litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products, dealing a significant blow to the criminal networks operating in the region.
In Rivers State, the operations focused on several key areas known for illegal oil bunkering. Near Idama in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, troops dismantled two active illegal refining sites and intercepted three boats carrying over 9,000 litres of stolen crude. Along the Eket-Port Harcourt expressway, a truck containing over 3,000 litres of stolen crude was impounded. At Okwuzi in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, an illegal oil bunkering dump containing over 2,100 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) was discovered. Further operations at the Ogaji-Ama axis in Bukuma resulted in the interception of a boat carrying over 1,000 litres of stolen crude. Clearance operations conducted in the Imo River area led to the destruction of two illegal refining sites, along with associated equipment, and the confiscation of over 2,000 litres of stolen crude.
Bayelsa State also saw significant operational successes. In Clough Creek, Ekeremor LGA, three illegal refining sites were dismantled, a pumping machine was seized, and over 3,500 litres of crude were recovered, alongside two immobilized boats. In Biseni, Yenagoa LGA, troops deactivated an illegal refining site and recovered over 2,000 litres of stolen crude. These operations demonstrate the concerted efforts of the security forces to disrupt illegal oil bunkering activities across multiple locations within the Niger Delta.
In Delta State, the focus shifted to intercepting the transportation of illegally refined products. Troops intercepted a Toyota Camry carrying 16 cellophane bags containing an unspecified quantity of illegally refined AGO in Oton Village, Sapele LGA. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of six suspected oil thieves. Furthermore, a tricycle transporting sacks of illegally refined products was intercepted along the Ughelli-Patani expressway. This highlights the diverse methods employed by criminals to transport stolen and illegally refined products, and the proactive measures taken by the army to counter these activities.
The successful operations conducted by the 6 Division are a testament to the ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering and refining in the Niger Delta. These illegal activities have significant economic and environmental consequences for the region and the country. The stolen crude oil and illegally refined products represent a substantial loss of revenue for the government and legitimate oil companies. Furthermore, the crude and often dangerous methods employed in illegal refining contribute to environmental pollution, damaging ecosystems and endangering local communities.
Major General Emmanuel Emekah, the General Officer Commanding the 6 Division, commended the troops for their dedication and effectiveness in combating these criminal activities. He stressed the importance of maintaining operational momentum to further disrupt the operations of economic saboteurs in the region. The continued commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies is crucial to curbing the negative impact of illegal oil bunkering and fostering a more secure and prosperous environment in the Niger Delta.
