April 26, 2026 / SUNTV Global Channel / National News
The has intensified its anti–oil theft operations across the Niger Delta, confiscating over 130,000 litres of stolen crude oil and destroying at least 10 illegal refining sites in a coordinated nationwide crackdown.
According to a statement from the , the operations were conducted between April 1 and April 26, 2026, in collaboration with other security agencies targeting illegal bunkering networks responsible for massive economic losses.
The Army reported the arrest of nine suspected oil thieves and the seizure of more than 26,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), with the total value of recovered products estimated at about ₦250 million.
In , troops uncovered several illegal storage sites in creeks and forests, including a major interception along the East–West Road in , where an abandoned truck was found loaded with approximately 45,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
Further raids in the Orashi National Forest in led to the discovery of large reservoirs containing over 35,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 26,000 litres of illegally refined diesel.
Troops also dismantled multiple illegal refining setups, including drum ovens, storage pits, and pipelines used to siphon crude oil.
In another operation at Ebocha in , soldiers intercepted 266 sacks of stolen petroleum products, while additional seizures were recorded in Abua/Odual and other surrounding communities.
In , troops discovered a tapping point connected to a hidden storage pit containing thousands of litres of stolen fuel, while similar operations in led to the recovery of illegally refined products abandoned by fleeing suspects.
The Army also confirmed continued surveillance in , aimed at preventing further illegal refining activities in the region.
Reacting to the operations, the General Officer Commanding, , praised the troops for their efforts and urged them to maintain pressure on criminal networks involved in oil theft and economic sabotage.
He emphasized that sustained military action remains critical to protecting national resources and restoring environmental stability in the Niger Delta.
Oil theft has long remained a major challenge in Nigeria’s oil-producing region, contributing to revenue losses, environmental damage, and persistent security concerns despite ongoing military interventions.
The Army reaffirmed that operations will continue across the region until illegal refining activities are fully dismantled.
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