The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed 12 illegal refining sites across Abia and Rivers states following a series of targeted airstrikes.
The operation was conducted after surveillance by NAF operatives uncovered active illegal refining sites in the regions. According to a statement from the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, AVM Edward Buba, the strikes led to the demolition of 12 refining sites and two reservoirs on July 26, 2024.
“In efforts aimed at minimizing 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,” Buba said.
Three of the destroyed sites were located in Umueze, Abia State. “In Umueze in Abia State, armed reconnaissance undertaken by the aircraft revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households,” Buba explained. “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.”
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Following the operation in Abia, the NAF crew moved to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where they dismantled nine refining sites and two reservoirs. “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,” Buba noted.
Buba also pointed out that the presence of refining sites within fenced living areas highlights the sophistication of the illegal refining operations, suggesting that airstrikes alone may not be sufficient to address the issue fully.
He cautioned those involved in illegal refining, particularly in residential areas, about the associated dangers. “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,” Buba said.
He assured that reconnaissance missions and the destruction of illegal refining sites would continue until crude oil theft and economic sabotage are significantly reduced. “Be that as it 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,” Buba concluded.
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