Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have recorded major operational successes in the Niger Delta Region, disrupting oil theft networks and seizing large quantities of stolen petroleum products.

The operations, carried out between April 1 and April 26, 2026, led to the arrest of nine suspected oil thieves, the dismantling of ten illegal refining sites, and the recovery of over 130,000 litres of stolen crude oil, alongside more than 26,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). Several pieces of equipment used in illegal refining activities were also destroyed. The recovered products are estimated to be worth over N250 million.

In Rivers State, troops conducted multiple operations across creeks, rivers, and inland areas. Acting on credible intelligence, operatives intercepted an abandoned truck with registration number KMC 310 ZV Kano at Ukpeye Community along the East-West Road in Ahoada East Local Government Area. The truck was found loaded with 45,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.

Further operations at the Orashi National Forest in Ahoada West Local Government Area led to the discovery of a large reservoir containing over 35,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Another reservoir holding more than 26,000 litres of illegally refined AGO was also uncovered, with several galvanized pipes used for siphoning the products destroyed.

At Ebocha in Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, troops recovered 266 sacks containing about 17,760 litres of stolen products. Similarly, in Abessa Forest, Ahoada West, four drum ovens and 50 sacks holding over 3,000 litres of crude oil were discovered, while two waste pits were destroyed.

Around Okolomade in Abua/Odual Local Government Area, troops seized 30 sacks containing over 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil.

In Delta State, troops uncovered an illegal tapping point near Obazogbe Community in Ethiope Local Government Area, along with a storage pit located about 500 metres away containing over 2,700 litres of stolen products.

In Akwa Ibom State, 45 bags containing approximately 1,350 litres of illegally refined AGO were recovered in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, with suspects fleeing the scene on sighting the troops.

Operations in Bayelsa State also recorded sustained dominance, with troops maintaining pressure on oil theft networks and restricting their activities across the state.

The General Officer Commanding, Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended the troops for their commitment and resilience, urging them to maintain the momentum in ongoing efforts to combat economic sabotage and related crimes in the Niger Delta.