Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division have arrested 62 suspects and dismantled 14 illegal refining sites across parts of the Niger Delta in a week-long operation targeting oil theft and economic sabotage.
The operation, which ran from July 14 to 20, 2025, led to the seizure of over 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, according to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah. The operations were conducted in collaboration with other security agencies across Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states.
Illegal Refineries Shut in Rivers State
In Rivers State, six illegal refining sites were uncovered in Joinkrama 4, Ahoada West LGA. Troops destroyed ovens, reservoirs, and receivers containing about 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 21,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). A generator set, welding machine, and other equipment were also recovered.
In Obiafor, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, additional illegal refining camps were dismantled. Three dug-out pits were found, two of which held over 5,700 litres of stolen crude, while the third contained an unmeasured quantity of AGO. Troops also intercepted two boats carrying ten sacks of condensates along the riverside.
Seizures in Ikwerre and Bayelsa
In Ikwerre LGA, soldiers intercepted a Sienna vehicle without a number plate loaded with 1,920 litres of AGO in 32 sacks. A nearby pit was discovered to contain 1,200 litres of condensates linked to an illegal connection point. Items recovered included three 150-meter hoses, eight metal drums, and multiple refining ovens.
The army said it will sustain the operations to protect national assets and deter oil thieves across the region.
