Troops of Operation Delta Safe have seized stolen petroleum products valued at ₦103,909,422 in a major crackdown on oil theft and illegal refining activities. The operation, which unfolded over the past week, also led to the destruction of multiple illegal refining sites and equipment.
According to Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, the troops uncovered and destroyed:
- 16 crude oil cooking ovens
- 31 dugout pits
- 19 boats
- 34 storage tanks
- 79 drums
- 18 illegal refining camps
The military also recovered 68,875 litres of stolen crude oil, 31,166 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 2,250 litres of kerosene. In addition, troops seized various tools and vehicles used by the oil thieves, including drilling machines, pumping equipment, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and seven vehicles.
Expanded Operations Against Terrorists and Bandits
Beyond the Niger Delta, the Nigerian military sustained offensives against insurgents across the Northeast, Northwest, and Northcentral zones. In Borno State, troops conducted fighting patrols in Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, and Damboa LGAs, where they eliminated several terrorists and rescued 17 kidnap victims. They also recovered arms, ammunition, hand grenades, and extra magazines.
On May 12, security forces arrested two terrorist logistics suppliers during coordinated operations in Gwoza and Gubio.
Northwest Successes: Dozens Rescued, Terrorists Killed
In the Northwest, Operation FASAN YAMMA troops neutralized dozens of armed bandits and rescued 42 kidnap victims in Sokoto and Zamfara States. Specifically, operations spanned Sabon Birni, Isa, Goronyo, Tangaza (Sokoto), and Anka, Gusau, Tsafe, Bungudu, and Shinkafi (Zamfara).
Meanwhile, another 87 victims were rescued from various locations across Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto States. Troops recovered arms, ammunition, motorcycles, vehicles, and stolen livestock.
In Gwadabawa LGA, Sokoto, troops arrested two suspected drug peddlers and seized cannabis, assorted illegal drugs, and N110,000 in cash during a cordon-and-search operation on April 9.
Operations in the Northcentral Zone
In Plateau State, troops neutralized extremists and arrested a suspected arms trafficker with weapons and N157,900 in cash. Operations took place in Riyom, Qua’an Pan, Bokkos, and Jos South LGAs.
Troops also foiled kidnap attempts in Jos South, Mangu, and Bassa between May 8 and 9, neutralizing more suspects and making additional arrests on May 10.
The Nigerian military continues to record significant victories in its battle against oil theft, terrorism, and organized crime. These operations reflect the armed forces’ renewed commitment to national security, economic protection, and public safety.