19 Illegal Refining Sites Shut Down, Over 589,000 Litres of Stolen Products Seized in Niger Delta
The fight against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta continues to yield results, as security forces intensify efforts to dismantle illegal operations. Between May 19 and 25, 2025, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, deactivated 19 unlawful refining camps and arrested 20 suspects. Over 589,000 litres of stolen petroleum products were confiscated during the operations.
In Rivers State, joint task forces uncovered illegal refining operations in Okolomade, Orashi, and the Ozochi Forests of Abua/Odual LGA. The raids led to the discovery of eight illicit cooking ovens, large-scale storage facilities containing more than 300,000 litres of illegally refined diesel, and over 250,000 litres of crude oil. Additional equipment seized included seven storage reservoirs, six receiving tanks, and a generator.
Elsewhere, at the Imo River boundary, troops dismantled nine illegal refineries, seizing 23 drum pots, 10 receiving drums, 321 sacks, and more than 16,000 litres of stolen fuel.
In Ogba/Ndoni/Egbema LGA, operatives intercepted 245 sacks filled with approximately 12,500 litres of illicit diesel. In a separate operation in Bonny LGA’s Ogbonga Forest, one suspect was apprehended with a hand-pulled fibre boat, a 400-meter hose stained with crude oil, four spanners, and a mobile phone among other items.
In Delta State, over 1,000 litres of stolen fuel stored in polythene bags were discovered in Jeddo (Okpe LGA), while several illegal sites and unmeasured quantities of illicit diesel were neutralized in Ogbu Aladja (Warri South LGA).
Troops also took action in Bayelsa, dismantling an illegal refining operation in Biseni (Yenagoa LGA), where four cooking ovens and multiple storage drums were destroyed. Meanwhile, forces in Akwa Ibom have intensified patrols across land and waterways to curb sabotage and related crimes.
All suspects have been handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution, while confiscated products have been treated in accordance with existing operational directives.
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, Commander of the 6 Division, affirmed the Army’s commitment to rooting out illegal refining activities. He emphasized that continued operations will help restore a secure environment for legitimate oil exploration in the region.
Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations – 6 Division
25 May 2025
