Niger Delta: Nigerian Army Intensifies Crackdown on Oil Saboteurs

Between July 14 and 20, 2025, Nigeria’s 6th Army Division, supported by various security agencies, carried out a large-scale security operation in the Niger Delta. The mission aimed to halt illegal refining activities, disrupt crude oil theft networks, and dismantle criminal supply chains that have long undermined the Nigerian economy.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Public Relations for the 6th Division, the coordinated action led to the arrest of 62 individuals suspected of involvement in economic sabotage.

Key Seizures and Destruction of Illegal Infrastructure

The operation, which spanned the states of Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom, resulted in the destruction of 14 illegal refineries. Additionally, troops seized five vessels and confiscated over 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.

“In Joinkrama 4, in the Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, our troops uncovered a large illegal refining hub built around an abandoned oil wellhead,” said Lt. Col. Danjuma.

Authorities dismantled six illegal processing facilities on this site alone. The installations included six industrial furnaces, metal storage tanks, and containers holding approximately 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 21,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). Authorities also seized several pieces of equipment, including a power generator, welding tools, and lifting gear—indicating a high degree of operational sophistication.

Environmental and Economic Impacts of Oil Theft

Artisanal refining and crude oil theft continue to pose serious challenges to Nigeria’s national security and economy. These illegal activities contribute to substantial financial losses and environmental degradation, including water pollution, deforestation, and the release of toxic substances that threaten local ecosystems and public health.

Nigerian Army Declares Zero Tolerance for Illegal Oil Activities

The Nigerian military has further reiterated its commitment to intensifying these security operations. “There will be no tolerance for illegal activities in the petroleum sector,” the 6th Division emphasised.

The fight against oil-related crimes in the Niger Delta is however, likely to go on, with an emphasis on protecting important energy infrastructure and reducing damage to the environment.

MMI