Troops from the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army have successfully disrupted major criminal activities in the Niger Delta, targeting both illegal oil refining and arms trafficking. The operation, conducted from August 25 to September 7, led to the arrest of 35 individuals and the destruction of six illicit refining sites.
- At Degema LGA, two illegal refining sites were dismantled, recovering 4,500 litres and 3,000 litres of stolen crude and Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO).
- In Emohua, troops uncovered pits containing crude oil and apprehended a suspect attempting to package 1,800 litres for transport.
- Near the Rivers–Imo border, 35 sacks containing 1,750 litres of illegally refined AGO were seized, while in Omoku, a vehicle transporting 12 sacks was intercepted before the driver escaped.
- Operations extended to Delta State, where 1,050 litres of stolen AGO were recovered in Warri South LGA, and to Akwa Ibom, intercepting 750 litres in Oruk Anam LGA.
- Additional sites in Abak and Bayelsa were destroyed, with jerricans and storage drums confiscated, while waterways were actively monitored to limit criminal movement.
- The army also dismantled a gunrunning syndicate known for trafficking small arms across the Niger Delta, seizing two English pistols, four locally-made pistols, and a double-barreled gun. Key suspects included Innocent Emiyemokumo Deidei (alias Sele Bobo), Godknows Alabor Avor, and Godwin Osik.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, described the operation as a significant achievement. He confirmed that all arrested suspects and recovered weapons were handed over to the relevant authorities for prosecution. The Army remains vigilant, ensuring that criminal networks in the region are systematically dismantled.
Commentary: This series of coordinated actions highlights the Nigerian Army’s increasing effectiveness in curbing both economic and security threats in the Niger Delta. It underscores the importance of intelligence-led operations and continuous monitoring to protect resources and citizens.
