In a significant blow against illicit oil activities, the Nigerian Army announced on Thursday, August 24, that it had successfully dismantled a sprawling illegal refinery in Delta State.
The operation, executed by the troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, saw the destruction of eight active ovens dedicated to the illegal refining of stolen crude oil.
Additionally, 14 storage reservoirs were dismantled, containing a staggering 200,000 liters of stolen crude oil and another 90,000 liters of locally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, made the disclosure through the army’s official communication channel, formerly known as Twitter.
In his statement, General Nwachukwu highlighted that the operation was prompted by actionable intelligence, leading the troops to a site in the vicinity of Ogbokoko and Atu in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The daring operation underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to curbing illegal oil activities that have plagued the nation’s economy.
General Nwachukwu reiterated the Army’s determination to continue efforts to eradicate economic sabotage, emphasizing that the destruction of the illegal refinery adhered to the established guidelines of Operation Delta Safe.
During the course of the operation, the oil thieves managed to escape upon sighting the advancing troops, leaving behind their illegal refining equipment and stores of stolen crude oil.
Authorities have launched an investigation to apprehend these criminals and hold them accountable for their actions.
Brigadier General Nwachukwu encouraged citizens to play an active role in preserving the nation’s economic interests by promptly reporting any suspicious activities to the security agencies.
He emphasized that the collaboration between the public and security agencies was crucial in the ongoing efforts to thwart acts of sabotage and criminality.
This latest victory by the Nigerian Army serves as a stern warning to those involved in illegal oil activities that their actions will not go unpunished.
As the nation continues to strive for economic growth and development, the decisive actions of the security forces stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s resources and upholding the rule of law.
