The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has destroyed 115 illegal refining sites and arrested 22 suspects in Rivers and Bayelsa states, in a bid to curb illegal artisanal refinery activities and associated crimes in the Niger Delta Region.
The operation, conducted in conjunction with other security agencies, resulted in the recovery of 27 stolen pipes, four pumping machines, and over 170,000 stolen products. “This is a significant blow to the criminal elements and economic saboteurs who have been perpetuating these illegal activities,” said Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the army’s Acting Deputy Director.
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In Bayelsa State, troops conducted operations around the swampy Ibidi general area, Twon Brass, Agip Terminal in Brass Local Government Area, where one illegal refining site, one generator, one pumping machine, one reservoir, and one large wooden boat with stolen refined products estimated to be over 90,000 litres was intercepted.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts to ensure that these illegal activities are brought to an end,” Danjuma added.
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In Rivers State, the army dominated the operations environment, with footprints of operational successes. At the notorious Imo River, over 79 illegal refining sites, and 59 wooden boats were destroyed, with over 40,000 stolen products recovered.
“The suspects have been handed over to the appropriate security agency for prosecution, while confiscated products have been handled appropriately,” said Maj. Gen. Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army.
