Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division have dismantled 22 illegal refining sites and arrested 19 suspects in a sustained operation against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism across the Niger Delta.
The operation, which lasted from November 23 to December 28, 2025, covered Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Akwa Ibom states. During the exercise, soldiers recovered more than 180,000 litres of stolen petroleum products estimated to be worth about ₦150 million.
Disclosing details of the operation, the 6 Division’s spokesperson, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, said the coordinated crackdown targeted illegal bunkering networks and vandalised oil infrastructure in the region.
In Bayelsa State, troops uncovered a large reservoir containing about 75,000 litres of stolen crude oil at Siebu Creek. Additional raids in Yenagoa and Ogbia areas led to the destruction of several illegal refining camps and the seizure of a large boat conveying stolen petroleum products.
In Rivers State, soldiers discovered a sophisticated nine-kilometre hose concealed in the Orashi Forest, allegedly used to channel crude oil to industrial-scale illegal ovens. Troops also foiled an attempt to vandalise a pipeline on Bonny Island, recovering specialised tools and pumping equipment.
In Delta State, soldiers intercepted a truck discharging about 45,000 litres of illegally diverted fuel along the Asaba–Benin Expressway. In other parts of the state, suspects were arrested while transporting refined petroleum products concealed in shuttle buses and sacks.
In Akwa Ibom State, the military uncovered a warehouse in Abak used for stockpiling illegally refined diesel.
Commending the troops, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, said the operations were crucial to protecting Nigeria’s economy and critical oil assets.
He urged residents of the Niger Delta to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely information.
