NAF dismantles 12 illegal oil refineries in Abia, Rivers

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed 12 illegal refining sites in Abia and Rivers states following a series of targeted airstrikes.

The operation was carried out after surveillance by NAF personnel uncovered illegal refineries operating in the area. According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, AVM Edward Buba, the raid led to the demolition of 12 refineries and two reservoirs on July 26, 2024.

“In a bid to curtail the activities of oil thieves and other economic sabotage, Nigerian Air Force aircraft under Operation Delta Safe, on July 26, 2024, carried out several strikes that led to the destruction of 12 illegal oil refineries and 2 reservoirs located in Abia and Rivers states,” Buba said.

The three destroyed sites were located in Umueze, Abia State. “In Umueze, Abia State, armed reconnaissance conducted by aircraft revealed several illegal distilleries located in many fenced houses,” Buba explained. “This information was then passed on to ground troops for further exploitation and necessary action. Towards Owaza, three illegal distilleries were seen hidden under dense vegetation, which were subsequently destroyed.”

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Following the operation in Abia, NAF crews moved to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where they dismantled nine refineries and two reservoirs. “The crews then followed the river line to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where nine illegal refineries and two reservoirs were discovered and destroyed. In total, 12 illegal refineries and two reservoirs were destroyed,” Buba said.

Buba also pointed out that the presence of oil refineries within fenced residential areas highlights the sophistication of illegal oil refining operations, suggesting that airstrikes alone may not be enough to fully address the problem.

He warned those involved in illegal distillation, especially in residential areas, of the dangers involved. “Those involved in this activity, especially in gated residential areas, are reminded once again of the dangers to human life and health as well as the environment,” Buba said.

He assured that armed reconnaissance missions and the destruction of illegal refineries will continue until crude oil theft and economic sabotage are significantly reduced. “In any case, armed reconnaissance missions, as well as the destruction of illegal refineries, will continue until crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage are reduced to a minimum,” Buba concluded.

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