The Defense headquarters revealed a significant breakthrough, announcing the retrieval of more than 500,000 liters of stolen crude oil in just one week. Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defense Media Operations, shared critical updates during a press briefing in Abuja on November 23.
The military’s actions, part of Operation Delta Safe, have yielded notable results, with the recovery of 578,900 liters of stolen crude oil, 454,330 liters of illegally refined diesel (Automotive Gas Oil), and 10,000 liters of Dual-Purpose Kerosene.
Operations in the Niger Delta region saw the destruction of 50 sites engaged in illegal oil refining, leading to the apprehension of 51 individuals involved in such activities. The troops demonstrated efficiency by eliminating four criminals, seizing weapons and ammunition, and demolishing 245 pits. Additionally, they targeted and destroyed 31 boats, 69 storage tanks, one tricycle, 23 vehicles, 162 cooking ovens, one pumping machine, and three outboard engines.
These robust efforts are part of a broader initiative to combat unlawful practices, bolster security, and uphold order in the region. Maj.-Gen. Buba highlighted a specific maritime operation on November 17, wherein a search and rescue operation successfully recovered a missing Cameroonian-flagged motor Fishing Vessel, securing two foreign crew members onboard.
In parallel, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) underscored its commitment to eradicating crude oil theft in the country. During a presentation at the Federation Account Allocation Committee Retreat in Asaba, Delta State, Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd., emphasized the company’s unwavering dedication to preventing crimes impacting the nation’s energy security.
Represented by the Chief Financial Officer, Umar Ajiya, the GCEO emphasized NNPC Ltd.’s resolute stance against activities negatively affecting the country’s resources. The commitment to collaboration within the industry has resulted in the prevention of illegal operations related to crude oil and product pipelines and the apprehension of numerous offenders.
The security operations primarily aim to halt both crude oil theft and pipeline damage, with the overarching goal of increasing the country’s crude oil production, boosting revenues, ensuring energy security, and contributing to economic growth. The comprehensive initiative seeks to safeguard the nation’s resources and foster overall prosperity.
