DHQ: Troops Arrest 23 Oil Thieves, Rescue 113 Kidnapped Hostages
Nigerian troops have intensified their operations against criminal activities in the South South geopolitical zone, arresting 23 individuals involved in oil theft and rescuing 113 kidnapped hostages within the past week.
This was disclosed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, during a press briefing in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
General Buba provided an update on ongoing military operations across various regions of the country, highlighting the successes achieved.
“In the South South region of the country, troops denied the oil thieves the estimated sum of N943,161,680.00,” Buba stated.
He also noted that troops neutralized 147 criminals and arrested 381 suspects across various operations.
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The troops’ operations led to the recovery of 74 assorted weapons and 3,498 rounds of ammunition, including 42 AK-47 rifles, 13 dane guns, and 2,466 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Additionally, the military seized six vehicles, 32 motorcycles, and eight mobile phones, among other items.In the Niger Delta area, troops discovered and destroyed 15 dugout pits, 17 boats, and 84 illegal refining sites used for oil theft.
The military also recovered 920,800 litres of stolen crude oil, 88,760 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 7,500 litres of petrol.
General Buba emphasized the ongoing efforts to adapt and refine military operations to eradicate terrorism and ensure the safety of citizens.
“The troops are working decisively to kill the terrorists, stop the insecurity, and ensure the safety of citizens across the country,” he said.
He urged citizens to recognize that the fight against insecurity requires collective effort, stating, “Together we can make an extraordinary difference in wiping out insecurity in our nation.”
The briefing concluded with a minute of silence observed in honor of the officers who lost their lives in defense of the nation.
