By Victor Akaa.
The Nigerian Army has made a significant strides in combating economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations, in a statement on Sunday, said in a decisive move, troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have launched a series of operations to dismantle illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries in the region
He said over the past week, the military has made significant strides, arresting 11 suspects, deactivating over 20 illegal bunkering sites, and intercepting 22 boats used for illicit activities.
According to him, key operations and seizures during the operation include the deactivation of four active artisanal refineries, and three wooden boats, and recovered over 35,000 liters of stolen products in Jigama, Bille general area, Degema LGA in Rivers State, and one illegal refining site, two massive metal tanks and over 30,000 liters of stolen products were seized in Okokokiri general area, Nembe LGA in Bayelsa State.
Also, in Delta State, troops intercepted a Lexus RX 350 Jeep with three suspects, recovering five pump action rifles, one Dane gun, one axe, and 51 cartridges in Oghareki Community, Ethiope West LGA.
He highlighted some the recoveries made by the troops during operations including, over 118,000 liters of stolen products, six arms of various calibers and cartridges and several vehicles loaded with stolen products.
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division ,Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops for their commitment and reassured them that the Division will continue to prioritize security for critical national assets and infrastructure.
The Nigerian Army’s sustained operations aim to deny criminal elements freedom of action and protect the country’s economic interests.
These bold moves demonstrate the military’s resolve to combat illegal oil bunkering and associated crimes in the Niger Delta Region, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for all, Enugu Reporters reported.
