Troops of the Joint Task Force South-South, under Operation Delta Safe, have destroyed an illegal crude oil refining site and recovered approximately 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Rivers State. The operation, conducted in the Orashi National area of Abua/Odual Local Government Area, marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta. Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed the development in a post on X, citing sources within the military who provided details of the raid.
The joint operation was carried out around 10:00 a.m. on April 11 by a team comprising soldiers from the 5 Battalion, 16 Brigade Garrison, and 103 Battalion (Motorised). The troops discovered and dismantled the illegal facility, which was equipped with tools and infrastructure used for illicit oil refining. Among the seized items were two long galvanized pipes measuring about 500 metres each and three hoses estimated at 100 metres in length.
A large reservoir containing stolen crude oil, estimated at 20,000 litres, was also recovered at the site. In addition, authorities found a big drum oven and a receiver holding refined products estimated at 12,000 litres. The site also contained a large cooling system, two active small drum ovens, and two drum receivers with suspected kerosene products, amounting to about 80 litres. All recovered equipment and materials were destroyed on the spot in accordance with the mandate of Operation Delta Safe.
Security sources emphasized that the operation reflects the military’s continued commitment to dismantling illegal refining activities and curbing crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. The destruction of the facility sends a strong message to criminal elements involved in oil theft and illegal refining, reinforcing the government’s resolve to protect national resources. The joint task force has vowed to maintain heightened operations across the region to prevent such activities from resurfacing.
This latest crackdown follows a series of similar operations in recent months aimed at restoring security and order in oil-producing communities. The destruction of illegal refining sites not only disrupts criminal networks but also helps reduce environmental degradation caused by open refining. As the military intensifies its presence in the Niger Delta, communities are being urged to report suspicious activities and cooperate with security agencies.
The success of this operation underscores the effectiveness of coordinated military efforts in tackling oil theft. With continued vigilance and public support, authorities aim to create a safer and more secure environment for legitimate oil production in the region. The destruction of this illegal facility is expected to serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar criminal enterprises.
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