RismadarVoice Reporters, April 27, 2026
Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have recorded significant operational successes in the Niger Delta Region between 1 and 26 April 2026, intensifying the crackdown on oil theft and related crimes.
The operations led to the arrest of nine suspected oil thieves, the dismantling of ten illegal refining sites, and the recovery of over 130,000 litres of stolen crude oil, alongside more than 26,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). The seized products are estimated to be worth over ₦250 million.
In Rivers State, troops carried out multiple operations across creeks, forests, and hinterland communities. Acting on credible intelligence, they intercepted an abandoned truck (registration number KMC 310 ZV, Kano) at Ukpeye Community along the East-West Road in Ahoada East LGA, loaded with 45,000 litres of suspected stolen petroleum products.
At the Orashi National Forest in Ahoada West LGA, troops uncovered a large reservoir containing over 35,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Another reservoir with more than 26,000 litres of illegally refined AGO was also discovered, with associated siphoning equipment destroyed.
Further operations at Ebocha, Omoku in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA led to the seizure of 266 sacks containing 17,760 litres of stolen products. At Abessa Forest in Ahoada West LGA, troops dismantled four drum ovens and recovered 50 sacks holding over 3,000 litres of crude oil, while two waste pits were destroyed.
Around Okolomade in Abua/Odual LGA, 30 sacks containing over 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil were recovered.
In Delta State, troops uncovered an illegal tapping point near Obazogbe Community in Ethiope LGA, along with a storage pit located about 500 metres away containing over 2,700 litres of stolen products.
Similarly, in Akwa Ibom State, troops recovered 45 bags of illegally refined AGO totalling about 1,350 litres in Ikot Ekpene LGA. Suspects reportedly fled upon sighting security operatives.
Operations in Bayelsa State have also intensified, with troops maintaining pressure and restricting the activities of oil theft syndicates.
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended the troops for their resilience and urged them to sustain the momentum in tackling economic sabotage across the region.
