Nigerian Army Discovers Massive Illegal Oil Bunkering Site in Rivers State

Troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have uncovered a significant illegal oil bunkering site concealed in Umuedeokwara Community, Odogwa Town, Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, disclosed this in a statement released on Thursday.

The discovery was made during clearance operations prompted by credible intelligence regarding criminal activities in the area.

Major General Jamal Abdusalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division and Nigerian Army/Land Component Commander of Joint Task Force Operation DELTA SAFE, personally visited the location to assess the situation.

His visit revealed the extensive scale of illegal activities being carried out at the site.

According to the statement, the GOC expressed his surprise at the magnitude of criminality discovered, emphasizing that even aerial surveillance with helicopters or drones would not have revealed the extent of the illegal operations.

The Division’s objective is to ensure that the Federal Government receives its rightful share of revenue from oil production to support the welfare of citizens.

General Abdusalam reiterated the crucial role of crude oil production in the nation’s budget, emphasizing that any decline in production negatively impacts the economy.

During the operation, a total of 19 reservoirs, each containing a minimum of 200,000 litres of crude oil, were discovered, amounting to over 3,000,000 litres in total.

General Abdusalam expressed concern over the adverse effects of such criminal activities on the national economy.

Addressing the perpetrators, Abdusalam warned them to desist from illegal activities and engage in lawful businesses to earn a legitimate living.

He emphasized that those involved in illegal oil bunkering would face the full force of the law if they persist in their activities.