“₦250 Million Oil Theft Bust: Army Exposes Massive Niger Delta Sabotage Network”
By Passman Akpos
Troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have recorded major operational successes across the Niger Delta, arresting suspected oil thieves and dismantling illegal refining networks in a sweeping crackdown on economic sabotage.
The operations, carried out between April 1 and 26, 2026, saw soldiers dominate the region’s creeks and hinterlands, leading to the arrest of nine suspects, the shutdown of 10 illegal refining sites, and the recovery of over 130,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Additionally, more than 26,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) were confiscated, with the total value of seized products estimated at over ₦250 million.
In Rivers State, troops acting on intelligence intercepted an abandoned truck loaded with 45,000 litres of stolen petroleum products along the East-West Road in Ahoada East Local Government Area. At the Orashi National Forest in Ahoada West, a massive illegal reservoir containing over 35,000 litres of crude oil was uncovered.
Further operations in Ebocha, Omoku, within Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, led to the seizure of 266 sacks containing 17,760 litres of stolen products. Additional discoveries included illegal refining equipment, drum ovens, and storage pits across multiple locations, all of which were destroyed
In Delta State, troops uncovered a tapping point and a concealed storage pit holding over 2,700 litres of stolen crude in Ethiope East LGA, highlighting the widespread nature of the illicit activity.
Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, 45 bags of illegally refined AGO totaling 1,350 litres were recovered in Ikot Ekpene, with suspects fleeing upon sighting the troops.
Operations also extended to Bayelsa State, where sustained military presence has reportedly denied oil thieves freedom of operation.
Commending the troops, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Emmanuel Eric Emekah, praised their resilience and urged them to maintain pressure on criminal networks undermining the nation’s economy.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s oil assets, vowing that the crackdown on illegal oil activities will continue with increased intensity across the region.
