Army Discovers Nine Reservoirs Holding Five Million Liters of Illegal Oil in Rivers State
On Wednesday, the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt made another significant discovery, uncovering nine reservoirs containing over five million liters of stolen crude oil in Rivers State. These reservoirs were found in a dense forest at Obaoma and Uzuoma villages in the Kom-kom Community of Oyigbo local government area.
Additionally, the site had 15 boilers used in refining the stolen crude oil. This discovery comes after the Army found 14 reservoirs stocked with over 3 million litres of crude oil on January 18, in a forest at Odagwa Community in Etche local government area of Rivers State.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division Nigerian Army and Land Component Commander of the Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, led journalists around the illegal refining site. He stated that this achievement was made possible through credible intelligence gathered by officers of the division.
General Abdussalam affirmed the commitment of the 6 Division Nigerian Army to continue the fight against illegal oil bunkering in Rivers State and other Niger Delta States, emphasizing that they will not relent until victory is achieved in this regard.
He said, “In continuation of our operations to destroy illegal refineries and connections within our area of responsibility, and based on credible intelligence early today, 31st January 2024, our troops raided this location.
“I thought we would not see anything more than the last raid we carried out in Odagwa, but unfortunately, we are seeing very sad and massive illegal activities taking place in this area also.
“Today, we discovered over 15 boilers and 9 reservoirs. From what we have seen here, the crude oil that has been stolen and reserved here for processing is over five million liters.”
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, revealed that in addition to the discovery of the nine reservoirs containing stolen crude oil, his team intercepted about five large wooden boats. These boats were found to contain upwards of about 200 to 300 liters of crude oil along the Imo River, leading to the forest where the illegal refining activities were taking place.
This interception demonstrates the comprehensive efforts of the Nigerian Army to combat illegal oil bunkering and related activities in the region. The discoveries and interventions along the waterways contribute to the overall strategy aimed at curbing illicit activities that have environmental, economic, and security implications.
“On our way here, we have met more than five large Cotonou boats capable of taking upwards of 200 to 300 liters filled with crude oil.
“It is indeed very sad that this activity has continued. We will not get tired, we will continue doing our job until we get rid of these activities in this area.”
The Nigerian Army expressed regret over the illegal business of oil theft, noting that it has been facilitated by individuals with professional expertise who are determined to sabotage the efforts of the government. This acknowledgment underscores the complexity of the issue and the involvement of various actors in illegal oil bunkering activities.
Combating such illicit activities requires a multifaceted approach, including intelligence gathering, law enforcement, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to address the root causes and disrupt the networks involved in oil theft. The government’s efforts to curb these activities are critical not only for economic reasons but also to ensure environmental sustainability and national security.
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“As you can see the facilities here, it is not the common person on the road that will come to set up something like this, it needs money, it needs expertise, and careful setting beyond the laborers we arrested last time.
“Our message has always remained the same, this activity is criminal, illegal, and dirty. We call on these criminals who are into these activities to embrace peace and engage in legitimate business like other Nigerians and allow the government to do what it is supposed to do.”
