In the ongoing effort to combat the vandalization of crude oil installations in the Niger Delta region, the Nigerian Army has made a firm commitment to deal harshly with suspected criminals involved in this illegal activity.
After conducting an operation targeting suspected oil thieves at Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West Local Government Area, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Hassan Dada, declared that decisive action will be taken.
During the operation, six suspects were apprehended for their involvement in illegal oil bunkering. Additionally, a total of 14 illegal oil bunkering vessels loaded with stolen crude oil were seized.
Following the arrests, the suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and prosecution, as confirmed by Dada and the Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Olusola Diya.
Speaking on the mission carried out in line with Operation Udoka’s mandate, Dada emphasized the Army’s commitment to preventing any form of economic sabotage within its operational scope.
Since Thursday, operations have been ongoing in Asa to counter saboteurs attempting to illegally extract crude oil, the cornerstone of the nation’s economy, according to Dada.
Based on intelligence, the suspects were caught in the act of trying to siphon crude oil from the pipeline before being apprehended.
Furthermore, it was revealed that the suspects had submerged some crude oil-laden boats in the water prior to the arrival of the troops, with efforts underway to recover the remaining vessels.
All 14 boats were ultimately destroyed as part of the standard operating procedure to prevent any further illicit activities in the area.
Despite one individual managing to flee the scene, Dada expressed confidence in apprehending them soon, noting the involvement of a larger network behind the illegal activities.
Emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards any actions undermining the country’s economy, Dada stated that the Army would intensify operations to root out such criminal activities.