Troops of the Nigerian Army have intensified their crackdown on crude oil theft across the Niger Delta, recording significant successes in a series of coordinated operations carried out throughout April 2026.
Operating under the 6 Division and in collaboration with other security agencies, the troops arrested nine suspects and dismantled multiple illegal refining sites between April 1 and 26. The operations also led to the recovery of more than 130,000 litres of stolen crude oil and over 26,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), with the total value of seized products estimated at over N250 million.
In Rivers State, several intelligence-led missions yielded major breakthroughs. Security operatives intercepted an abandoned truck along the East-West Road in Ukpeye Community, Ahoada East Local Government Area. The vehicle, bearing registration number KMC 310 ZV Kano, was found loaded with about 45,000 litres of suspected stolen petroleum products.
Further operations in Ahoada West Local Government Area uncovered a large illegal storage facility hidden within the Orashi National Forest, where more than 35,000 litres of stolen crude oil were discovered. Nearby, another illegal refining site containing over 26,000 litres of AGO was dismantled, with equipment such as galvanized pipes used for siphoning destroyed on the spot.
At Ebocha in Omoku, within Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, troops confiscated 266 sacks filled with an estimated 17,760 litres of stolen petroleum products. Additional raids in the Abessa Forest area led to the destruction of four drum ovens, multiple refining pits, and over 3,000 litres of crude oil stored in sacks.
In Abua/Odual Local Government Area, security forces recovered about 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil concealed in 30 sacks around the Okolomade axis.
Operations extended beyond Rivers State into other parts of the Niger Delta. In Delta State, troops uncovered an illegal tapping point at Obazogbe Community in Ethiope East Local Government Area, where a dugout pit containing more than 2,700 litres of stolen petroleum products was found.
Similarly, in Akwa Ibom State, operatives recovered about 1,350 litres of illegally refined AGO stored in 45 bags at Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area after suspects fled the scene.
Security operations have also remained active in Bayelsa State, where troops continue to disrupt the activities of oil thieves and dismantle illegal refining networks.
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Emmanuel Eric Emekah, praised the troops for their commitment and resilience. He urged them to sustain the momentum and maintain pressure on criminal elements involved in oil theft and other related economic sabotage across the region.
The intensified operations underscore ongoing efforts by the military to safeguard the nation’s oil resources and curb illegal activities that have long impacted the economy and environment in the Niger Delta.
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