In the previous seven weeks, Operation Delta Safe troops have dismantled 337 illegal oil refineries and arrested 141 oil thieves in the Niger Delta.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Bernard Onyeuko made this known at the Defence Headquarters bi-weekly briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
337 illegal oil refineries were identified and destroyed
According to Onyeuko, the achievement was accomplished through the “Operation Octopus Grip” subsidiary. Moreover, the troops identified and demolished 337 illegal oil refineries, 1,052 metal storage tanks, 515 ovens, and 68 wooden boats.
It also seized 59 vehicles, 16 outboard engines, and 11 guns, as well as apprehended 141 criminals.
He claimed the activities took place in creeks, cities, and settlements throughout Delta State, including Jesse in the Ethiope Local Government Area, Otagbo Creek, the Escravos River, and Benett Island.
“Operations were also conducted at the Brass creek, Beneside, and Ndoro Waterways Ekeremor all in Bayelsa as well as Opumaki, Cawthrone Channel all in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers,” he said.
He went on to say that two sludge trucks, 22 wooden boats, three fiber boats, and four tankers had been impounded, as well as a slew of suspects.
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