The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has uncovered a staggering 165 illegal refineries and 400 incidents of oil theft and vandalism in the Niger Delta region within a week.
According to a documentary released by NNPC, the incidents occurred between June 15 and 21, with 69 illegal connections discovered and disconnected in Bayelsa and Rivers States.
The NNPC also reported eight cases of oil spills due to vandalism or illegal connections, with an illegal loading point discovered in Warri, Delta State.
Additionally, 69 illegal refineries were uncovered and dismantled in Okrika, Rivers State, and similar sites were found in Abia and Bayelsa States.
The NNPC also seized 19 illegal storage sites filled with stolen crude and illegally refined products in Delta, Imo, Rivers, Abia, and Bayelsa States.
Eleven vehicles and 39 boats conveying stolen crude were confiscated, and eight persons were arrested in connection with the incidents.
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The NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, has emphasized the need to address insecurity in the oil and gas sector to increase production.
Kyari noted that crude oil production has been declining due to oil theft and vandalism, and urged the removal of security challenges to ensure the delivery of oil to the market.
