Troops of Operation Delta Safe have been successful in their battle against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. Over the course of the last week, they have discovered and deactivated 53 illegal refining sites, apprehended 19 suspected oil thieves, and confiscated stolen oil and other equipment used in the illegal activities.
According to Major-General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, the troops have maintained their momentum in tackling crude oil theft. As part of their efforts, they have also destroyed 54 dugout pits, 66 boats, 138 storage tanks, 253 cooking ovens, and other related equipment used in the illegal activities.
The significant achievements of the troops also include the recovery of 983,350 liters of stolen crude oil, 144,980 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 71,650 liters of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK). Furthermore, they were able to neutralize one criminal, rescue three hostages, and seize a fabricated rifle, 18 vehicles, and one torchlight.
Moving to the South-east operations, Operation UDO KA conducted a surprise operation resulting in the arrest of suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Ebonyi and Imo states. The operation also led to the elimination of five terrorists, the arrest of 12 suspected criminals, and the rescue of seven kidnapped hostages.
During the operation, the troops recovered two locally made guns, four rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammunition, one FN rifle barrel, as well as improvised explosive device (IED) materials, including water gel explosives, detonators, and detonating cords.
Major-General Buba highlighted that the military had identified several hideouts used by criminals across various theaters of operation. These hideouts, located in national parks, game reserves, and forests, have served as safe havens for criminals. However, the military is committed to dismantling these havens and ensuring that they are rendered ineffective.
In one recently invaded hideout in the southeast, the troops discovered horrifying activities being carried out by the extremists. Major-General Buba described these criminals as cannibals, engaged in savage acts against their fellow human beings.
The concerted efforts of the troops in Operation Delta Safe and Operation UDO KA demonstrate their unwavering commitment to eradicating crude oil theft and addressing security challenges in the Niger Delta region and the South-east. Through targeted operations, they aim to neutralize criminal elements, rescue hostages, and dismantle criminal hideouts, ultimately promoting peace and stability in these areas.
The Defence Headquarters encourages the public to support the military’s efforts by providing timely and credible information that can aid in thwarting criminal activities. They assure the public of their determination to protect lives, safeguard critical infrastructure, and maintain national security.
In conclusion, the ongoing operations in the Niger Delta region and the South-east by the Armed Forces of Nigeria have yielded significant results in the fight against crude oil theft and criminal activities. The latest achievements, including the discovery and deactivation of illegal refining sites, the recovery of stolen products, and the arrest of suspected oil thieves, underscore the commitment of the military in restoring peace and securing the nation.
