In an ongoing effort to combat illegal activities in the Niger Delta region, the Defence Headquarters has reported significant successes achieved by troops of Operation Delta Safe. Over the past two weeks, a total of 57 illegal refining sites have been dismantled, and 16 individuals suspected of oil theft have been apprehended. The Director of Defence Media Operation, Maj.-Gen. Musa Danmadami, shared these updates during a bi-weekly news conference in Abuja, shedding light on the relentless efforts of the armed forces in ensuring security and stability in the region.
The Crackdown:
During the recent operations, troops discovered and destroyed 27 wooden boats, 158 storage tanks, 149 ovens, and eight dugout pits, all used in illegal refining activities. The magnitude of the dismantled infrastructure showcases the scale of the illicit operations that have plagued the region for years. Additionally, the troops successfully recovered substantial quantities of crude oil and other illicit materials, further disrupting the criminal networks involved in oil theft.
Impressive Recoveries:
The combined efforts of the armed forces led to the recovery of 122,600 litres of crude oil, 89,850 litres of AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), and a range of equipment and vehicles utilized in illegal activities. Among the seized items were seven vehicles, 18 pumping machines, one outboard engine, one speedboat, six assorted ammunition, one weapon, and one tricycle. These recoveries serve as a testament to the effectiveness and commitment of Operation Delta Safe in curbing oil theft and dismantling illegal refining networks.
Collaborative Efforts and Handover:
The Director of Defence Media Operation emphasized that the recovered items and arrested suspects have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and legal action. This approach highlights the collaborative efforts between the armed forces and relevant agencies in the fight against oil theft and related crimes. By ensuring that the recovered assets and apprehended individuals are properly processed and prosecuted, the authorities aim to deter future criminal activities and promote accountability.
Air Component's Crucial Role:
The air component of Operation Delta Safe played a pivotal role in recent operations. Through strategic air reconnaissance and interdiction missions, illegal refining activities in Okoro Nyong and Ndele were identified and targeted. The precision air strikes not only destroyed the locations but also engulfed illegally refined products and equipment in flames, effectively neutralizing the illicit operations.
Economic Impact:
In addition to the significant operational successes, the efforts of Operation Delta Safe have also dealt a heavy blow to the illegal oil trade's financial aspect. It is estimated that a staggering sum of N82.4 million has been denied to oil thieves during the focused period. By disrupting their operations and preventing them from profiting, the armed forces are sending a strong message that such illegal activities will not be tolerated.
Conclusion:
The recent achievements of Operation Delta Safe demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the armed forces in combating oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta region. Through meticulous raids, patrols, and clearance operations, the troops have succeeded in dismantling numerous illegal refining sites and apprehending suspected oil thieves. The collaboration between the armed forces and other relevant authorities, along with the air component's crucial role, has significantly disrupted criminal networks and dealt a blow to their financial gains. As Operation Delta Safe continues to maintain its momentum, it sends a clear message that the Niger Delta will not tolerate illicit activities that undermine the region's stability and economic progress
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