Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, have destroyed eight illegal refineries and seized over 18,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined products in a sweeping operation across the Niger Delta region.
The crackdown, which spanned from 21 September to 5 October 2025, targeted oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and environmental degradation caused by illegal refining activities in oil-producing communities.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, according to a statement released on Sunday by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations.
The army stated that several suspects were also arrested during the raids, which covered parts of Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa States.
“The troops dismantled a newly constructed illegal refining site at Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State. Items found at the site included receivers, ovens, drums, and pipes. Over 3,500 litres of stolen crude oil were recovered,” the statement said.
In another operation in Oyigbo LGA, soldiers intercepted a red Mercedes-Benz vacuum truck loaded with over 3,200 litres of stolen crude oil. The driver of the truck with registration number AHD 925 XA reportedly fled upon sighting the soldiers.
The troops also carried out clearance operations along the fringes of the Imo River, where they uncovered another illegal refining camp with three drum pots, two drum receivers, and more than 2,000 litres of stolen crude stockpiled in sacks.
Additional illegal sites and stolen products were discovered in:
Odogwa (Etche LGA)
Obeama Uzomiri Waterside (Oyigbo LGA)
Obiafor Oil Field (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA)
In Akwa Ibom State, troops intercepted two Toyota Camry cars conveying 120 nylon bags filled with over 3,600 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) along Ikot Okoro, Abak LGA. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the seizure. The vehicles bore registration numbers ANA 495 CK and AKD 233 EQ.
Meanwhile, in Bayelsa State, troops uncovered 950 litres of stolen petroleum products hidden in an abandoned building at House No. 70, Biseni Community, Kemezia Road, in Yenagoa LGA.
These discoveries form part of the Army’s renewed efforts to secure national assets, reduce oil theft, and protect the environment in the region long plagued by illegal oil operations.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended the troops for their professionalism, resilience, and dedication.
“Our forests must remain green and waters blue,” General Emekah declared. “We have zero tolerance for any form of economic sabotage.”
He advised those involved in criminal activities in the Niger Delta to desist and seek lawful means of livelihood, warning that the army will continue to clamp down on oil thieves and pipeline vandals.
Illegal refining and oil theft have remained persistent issues in the Niger Delta. Apart from causing massive revenue losses to the federal government, these activities have also led to severe environmental pollution, with oil spills and soot affecting farmlands, water bodies, and the health of residents.
The federal government, through various joint military operations, has in recent years increased efforts to combat these crimes. However, observers note that more needs to be done to address the root causes, including poverty, unemployment, and weak enforcement of laws.
As 2027 approaches and Nigeria seeks to stabilise its economy, securing the oil sector—still a major revenue source remains a national priority.
