The Nigerian Army, in a series of coordinated operations, has successfully destroyed 21 illegal refineries and arrested 36 suspects involved in the illegal oil trade in the Niger Delta region. These operations, spanning from April 28 to May 11, 2025, have resulted in the recovery of over 590,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, significantly curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
According to Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director of the 6 Division Army Public Relations, the operation involved collaboration with other security agencies across Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states. The crackdown is part of the army’s ongoing effort to tackle the growing problem of illegal oil refining and theft, which has plagued the region for years.
In a statement issued from Port Harcourt, Lt. Col. Danjuma provided detailed accounts of the operations, which took place in various locations throughout the region. The army’s efforts have made significant progress in dismantling illegal refining sites, preventing further environmental damage, and seizing stolen crude and refined products.
“Troops in operational synergy with other security agencies successfully dismantled 21 illegal refining sites, arrested 36 suspected oil thieves, and confiscated over 591,000 litres of stolen products across the region,” the statement read.
In Rivers State, operations were particularly successful. Troops discovered a 15-kilometre-long hose leading to an illegal loading point in the Orashi Game Reserve/Okolomade area of Abua/Odual Local Government Area. The operation led to the dismantling of five illegal refineries, including one large metal tank that contained over 350,000 litres of illegally refined automotive gasoline oil. Troops also uncovered over 100,000 litres of stolen crude and seized several items, including a pumping machine, electric cables, and borehole equipment.
Additionally, the army destroyed seven illegal refining sites along the Imo River, where they seized 1,428 bags containing over 21,500 litres of crude oil. Five boats used for illegal activities were also destroyed. In another operation, a truck loaded with 20,000 litres of stolen petroleum products was intercepted at Elelenwa, Eleme Local Government Area.
In Bayelsa State, troops intercepted a tanker truck with 45,000 litres of stolen oil and arrested three suspects. Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, a tanker truck carrying over 16,500 litres of stolen crude was found in Uyo, and the driver fled upon seeing the army personnel. Delta State also saw several arrests, with troops uncovering vehicles loaded with stolen refined products and illicit weapons.
“The vehicles were intercepted at the Ada-Inri community. It was discovered to have been loaded with over 1,250 litres of illegally refined AGO,” the statement continued. Additionally, in Warri South Local Government Area, troops found and seized 38 sacks of stolen crude oil hidden in the bush.
The army’s actions have not only disrupted the illegal oil refining network but also sent a strong message to those involved in economic sabotage in the region. All arrested suspects have been handed over to the relevant authorities for prosecution, and the stolen products have been dealt with according to operational protocols.
Maj Gen Emmanuel Emekah, the General Officer Commanding the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, has been visiting key locations across the Niger Delta to reinforce troops’ morale and ensure the continued success of the operation. His visits have been instrumental in redefining operational strategies and enhancing the army’s fight against oil theft and associated criminal activities.
