At least 12 illegal refining locations in Abia and River states were demolished by airstrikes conducted by the air unit of Operation Delta Safe.
The airstrikes were executed after a reconnaissance mission by Nigerian Air Force operatives, which identified active illegal refining sites in these states.
On Sunday, AVM Edward Buba, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, issued a statement indicating that three of the 12 illicit refining sites were destroyed in Umueze, Abia State.
He stated, “In efforts aimed at minimising the activities of oil thieves and other economic saboteurs, Nigerian Air Force aircraft under Operation Delta Safe, on July 26, 2024, carried out several strikes that led to the destruction of 12 illegal refining sites and 2 reservoirs located in Abia and Rivers states.
“In Umueze in Abia State, armed reconnaissance undertaken by the aircraft revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households.
“This information was subsequently relayed to ground troops for further exploitation and necessary action. Heading towards Owaza, three illegal refining sites were observed hidden under thick vegetation, which were subsequently destroyed.”
Gabkwet mentioned that following the mission in Abia, the team moved on to Komkom and Okoloma in River State, where they dismantled nine refining facilities and two storage tanks.
He stated, “Thereafter, the crew followed the river line down to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where nine illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were discovered and destroyed. In total, 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were destroyed.
“The sighting of illegal refining sites in fenced living environments is indicative of the sophistry of the illegal oil refining trade that would require other means beyond air strikes to checkmate. “
Gabkwet, consequently, called on those running unauthorized oil refining operations within enclosed spaces to stop their activities because of the related health hazards.
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He said, “Those engaged in these acts, especially in fenced living environments, are again reminded of their danger to human lives and health as well as the environment.
“Be that as may, armed reconnaissance missions, as well as the destruction of illegal refining sites, will continue unabated until crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage are reduced to the barest minimum.”
Source: The PUNCH
