Troops uncover illegal refining sites, arrest culprits in Niger Delta
The military troops have uncovered illegal crude oil refineries in Niger Delta region and also arrested suspected criminals associated with the unwholesome acts.
The information was disclosed by the Director, Defence Media operations, Major General Edward Buba during a press briefing with journalist, at Defence Headquarter, Abuja.
“Troops, responding to intelligence reports, successfully recovered 139,045 litres of stolen crude oil, 25,115 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 5,200 litres of DPK.
“In addition to the confiscation of these illicit petroleum products, 25 suspected oil thieves were apprehended,” he said.
Meanwhile, In a separate incident in Sapele LGA, Delta State, troops arrested four suspected violent extremists/cultists during a fighting patrol on January 11, 2024.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 4 pump action guns, 7 fabricated pump action dummy magazines, 23 live cartridges, 3 short guns, 3 headgears (one belonging to NP), 3 pepper spray canisters, 3 body armor, and 5 mobile phones.
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Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the suspects was a member of a vigilante volunteer group.
“Regarding the activities of a violent extremist gang, troops arrested a suspected violent extremist in Uran LGA of Akwa Ibom on January 14, 2024. The suspect, identified as Mr Kufre Archibong, was alleged to be involved in sea piracy/armed robbery and cult activities around riverine areas.
“ The military confiscated one locally made single barrel gun, 19 live shotgun cartridges, 2 cutlasses, charms, and one mobile phone during the operation”, He added.
Troops also arrested a suspected IPOB/ESN commander identified as Nwanchukwu Sunday (aka Commando) in Onitsha LGA of Anambra State on January 12, 2024.
“In response to a distress call about a kidnapping incident in Udenu LGA of Enugu State on January 11, troops swiftly intervened, causing the kidnappers to flee and abandoning their victims. Troops successfully rescued 6 kidnapped hostages, reuniting them with their families.
“The successful operations underscore the military’s commitment to maintaining security and combating various criminal activities across the affected regions,” He Concluded.
