Crime

See the Numbers of Oil-Laden Boats Army Destroyed and Suspects Arrested

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 25th, 2024.

See the Numbers of Oil-Laden Boats Army Destroyed and Suspects Arrested

By Ogbonnaya Ikokwu

Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to combat criminal activities involving the vandalism of crude oil installations in the Niger Delta.

Major General Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, made this announcement following an operation targeting suspected oil thieves at Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.

In a statement released on Monday, Dada reported that six individuals were arrested for illegal oil bunkering, and 14 vessels loaded with stolen crude oil were confiscated. These vessels, including eight large Cotonou boats, will be set ablaze as part of the crackdown.

Accompanied by Brigadier General Olusola Diya, the Commander of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Dada stated that the suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and prosecution.

The army’s presence at the creek was to enforce Operation Udoka’s mandate, aimed at preventing economic sabotage within its joint operational area. Dada explained, “We have been in Asa since Thursday, conducting operations against saboteurs attempting to siphon crude oil, the mainstay of our economy.”

Based on an intelligence report, the operation intercepted the suspects just as they were preparing to siphon crude from the pipeline. Some of the suspects had sunk oil-laden boats in the water before the troops arrived, but all 14 boats were subsequently destroyed in accordance with the Standing Operating Procedure.

“The primary individual involved in this operation is currently on the run, but it is only a matter of time before we apprehend him,” Dada said. “This is a larger cartel, and we believe many people are involved. The proceeds are likely being used to finance terrorism.”

He issued a stern warning, stating, “This is just the beginning. We will persist in this operation and leave no stone unturned. The Nigerian Army will not tolerate any form of sabotage against the country’s economy.”