Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have intensified both kinetic and non-kinetic operations in the Niger region, dismantling criminal networks and destroying several illegal refining sites.
Troops working in concert with other security agencies deactivated eight artisanal refineries, arrested several suspected oil thieves, and seized over 18,000 litres of stolen crude oil in a sustained onslaught against economic saboteurs.
They executed the task between September 21 and October 5, 2025,
The Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, stated that troops who stormed Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West LGA, Rivers State, uncovered and dismantled a newly constructed illegal refinery.
He added that the operation also led to the destruction of refining equipment including receivers, ovens, drums, and pipes, with 3,500 litres of stolen crude recovered.
He said:“Acting on credible intelligence, the troops also intercepted a red Mercedes-Benz vacuum truck (AHD 925 XA) loaded with 3,200 litres of stolen crude along Aba Road, Oyigbo LGA. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on sighting the soldiers.
“Similarly, clearance operations along the Imo River fringes led to the shutdown of another illegal refinery, where troops recovered three drum pots, two receivers, and over 2,000 litres of crude oil hidden in sacks. More seizures were recorded in Odogwa (Etche LGA), Obeama Uzomiri Waterside (Oyigbo LGA), and Obiafor Oil Field (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA).
“In Akwa Ibom State, two Toyota Camry cars (ANA 495 CK and AKD 233 EQ) conveying 120 nylon bags filled with 3,600 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) were intercepted along Ikot Okoro Road, Abak LGA. Two suspects were arrested on the spot.
“Meanwhile, in Bayelsa State, troops uncovered 950 litres of stolen petroleum products stashed inside an abandoned building at Biseni Community, Yenagoa LGA.”
The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, hailed the gallantry of the troops and unwavering commitment to safeguarding national assets.
He urged criminal elements in the region to renounce economic sabotage and embrace legitimate livelihoods.
“Under my watch, our forests will remain green and our waters blue. We will maintain zero tolerance for oil theft and all forms of criminality in the Niger Delta,” General Emekah added
