RismadarVoice Reporters, April 17, 2026
Troops of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, have foiled an illegal petroleum bunkering operation and arrested 14 suspected oil thieves in the Lekki Free Zone area near the Dangote Refinery in Lagos State.
Acting on credible intelligence, the troops carried out a coordinated night operation in the early hours of April 16, 2026, at about 1:30 a.m., during which the suspects were caught in the act of siphoning petroleum products.
According to the Army, the criminals had illegally laid a long pipeline from the high sea to a tanker concealed in a bush location, using a generator-powered pumping machine to transfer petroleum products into the vehicle.
On sighting the approaching troops, the suspects reportedly attempted to flee but were swiftly overpowered and arrested.
Items recovered at the scene include a fully loaded petroleum tanker, a Lexus Highlander SUV with registration number APP 67 JQ Lagos, a Ford Hilux vehicle with registration number BY 117 FST Lagos, a pumping machine, a 40HP boat engine, and several industrial hosepipes and other bunkering equipment.
The arrested suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in the custody of 81 Division Nigerian Army for preliminary investigation, after which they are expected to be handed over to relevant prosecuting agencies in line with existing laws.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to combating crude oil theft and economic sabotage, particularly within critical national infrastructure zones.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
