Operation DELTA SAFE Troops Seize N1.98b Illegal Crude Oil

Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE have achieved a significant milestone in the fight against oil theft and economic sabotage, seizing illegal crude and petroleum products valued at over N1.93 billion within just one week.

The Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, made this known while addressing newsmen on the activities of troops across the six geopolitical zones of the country in Abuja.

He outlined the progress made by various military operations nationwide as part of the Armed Forces’ commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s security and economic assets.

According to General Kangye, troops recovered 1,009,733 litres of stolen crude oil, 304,811 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil AGO, 3,480 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene DPK, 19,875 litres of Premium Motor Spirit PMS, and 1,600 litres of engine oil.

He further stated that security forces also dismantled 95 illegal refining sites, destroyed 351 crude oil cooking ovens, 418 dugout pits, and 160 storage tanks.

Additionally, 30 boats, 9 speedboats, 721 drums, and 42 vehicles used in the illegal operations were confiscated.

General Kangye
commended the courage and professionalism of the troops, stressing the vital role of Operation DELTA SAFE in tackling oil-related crimes in the Niger Delta.

“Our dedicated troops have demonstrated remarkable courage and professionalism in the face of adversity,”
Beyond the Niger Delta, the military also reported major successes in ongoing operations across the country. In the past month alone, more than 430 suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and oil theft were arrested.

Among those apprehended were Nkwachi Eze, a notorious insurgent leader in the South East, and Buhari Umar, a suspected arms dealer and kidnapping kingpin operating in the North Central region.

In Nasarawa State, troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE arrested a five-man kidnapping syndicate in Lafia. During the same period, security forces rescued 173 kidnapped victims and received the surrender of over 204 terrorists and their family members across various operational zones*.

General Kangye reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional duties and expressed appreciation to local communities and media organizations for their continued cooperation and support.

He also underscored the need for stronger collaboration with local and international partners to boost intelligence sharing and enhance operational effectiveness.

Aisha Adesanya, Edited By Grace Namiji