Army Destroys 19 Illegal Refineries, Arrests 12 in Niger Delta Operation
The Nigerian Army has intensified its crackdown on illegal oil refining operations in the Niger Delta, dismantling 19 illegal refineries and arresting 12 suspects in a recent operation. The troops, under Operation Delta Sanity, carried out targeted raids across several states, including Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta, in a bid to curb oil theft and environmental degradation.
According to a statement by the Army Headquarters, the operation, which took place between March 10 and March 17, 2025, led to the destruction of multiple refining sites used for processing stolen crude oil. Security operatives also seized over 200,000 litres of illegally refined petroleum products, 15 wooden boats, and several pumping machines used in the illicit trade.
In Rivers State, the army raided refining camps in the creeks of Akuku-Toru and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni local government areas, where they intercepted several boats transporting illegally refined diesel. Troops also confiscated a truck loaded with over 3,000 litres of stolen crude oil at Ogale Junction along the Eket–Port Harcourt expressway.
Similarly, in Bayelsa State, security forces uncovered and dismantled multiple illegal refining sites in Ekeremor and Yenagoa local government areas. Over 3,500 litres of crude oil were recovered, and several makeshift refineries were set ablaze to prevent further operations. The army also intensified patrols around Clough Creek and other notorious hotspots for oil bunkering activities.
In Delta State, troops intercepted a vehicle transporting bags filled with illegally refined diesel in Oton Village, Sapele Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the arrest of six suspects, while another seizure was made along the Ughelli-Patani expressway, where security operatives impounded a tricycle smuggling illicit petroleum products.
Speaking on the operation, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, the General Officer Commanding the 6 Division, commended the troops for their vigilance and commitment to tackling oil theft in the region. He reiterated the army’s determination to sustain the offensive against economic saboteurs, warning that anyone involved in illegal refining activities would be brought to justice.
The army’s crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil activities, which have led to severe environmental pollution and economic losses for the country. Security agencies have vowed to maintain continuous surveillance and intelligence-driven operations to dismantle oil theft syndicates operating in the region.
Authorities have urged residents to report suspicious activities and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the protection of the nation’s resources. The Nigerian Army assured that all suspects arrested would be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution.