By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has intensified its crackdown on oil thieves and associated crimes in the Niger Delta Region. Between April 21 and 27, 2025, troops, working closely with other security agencies, arrested 23 suspected oil thieves, deactivated 13 artisanal refineries, and confiscated over 180,000 litres of stolen products.
Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma in an official signed statement disclosed that in Rivers State, troops recovered over 45,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) in sacks, concealed in a forested area around Orachi/Okolomade.
Additionally, an active illegal refining site was destroyed in Obiafo, with over 28,000 litres of stolen crude recovered.
A suspect was arrested, and others fled upon sighting troops. Troops also recovered an 800-metre-long hose and pumping machine.
He further disclosed that in another operation, troops uncovered an illegal refining site in Peterside Community, Bonny Local Government Area, recovering three pots and receivers and over 10,000 litres of stolen products. Two wooden boats conveying over 3,000 litres of illegally refined AGO were also intercepted, and seven suspected oil thieves were apprehended.
In Akwa Ibom State, troops intercepted a tanker truck with 39,994 litres of stolen products along the Itu-Calabar highway.
Two suspected oil thieves were arrested, and further investigation revealed fake waybill papers. A similar operation was conducted along Abak-Ikomima road, intercepting a truck with 39,985 litres of stolen crude.
In Bayelsa State, troops discovered an illegal refining site with over 2,600 litres of AGO in sacks and recovered over 2,500 litres of stolen crude and 1,100 litres of illegally refined AGO. Eight wheelbarrows used for illicit activities were also recovered, and six suspected oil thieves were arrested.
The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, has called on troops to sustain the pressure on economic sabotage in the region. He also urged the public to provide credible information on criminal activities to security agencies.
