NAF destroys illegal crude oil refinery sites in Rivers State

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully carried out an aerial interdiction mission in Rivers State, destroying two illegal crude oil refining sites along the Imo River.

According to Group Captain Kabiru Ali, NAF Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, the airstrike carried out on September 13, 2024 was aimed at curbing crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.

“The missions targeted specific locations in the Owaza, Uzaku, Obuzor, Osuaku and Obiaku areas,” Group Captain Ali said. “In the first mission, NAF aircraft provided Close Air Support to ground troops near Imo River. During the Armed Reconnaissance operation, the aircrew identified an active illegal refining site in Uzaku and engaged it, destroying four Illegal Refining Site (IRS) tanks and two canoes.”

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He further explained that the second mission, initially intended to support troops northwest of Umuahia, was diverted due to adverse weather conditions. “The crew conducted further Armed Reconnaissance around Obuzor area on the Imo River, destroying 12 IRS tanks, jerrycans and equipment used by bandits at Owaza, Obuzor, Osuaku and Obiaku.”

Group Captain Ali reiterated the NAF’s commitment to conducting air operations against oil thieves and other criminals in the Niger Delta, in support of ground troops across the region. He stressed the importance of law-abiding citizens supporting the efforts of security agencies to curb economic saboteurs.

“Collective efforts will go a long way in stopping the activities of these criminals,” he said.

NAF destroys illegal crude oil refinery sites in Rivers State first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.