No fewer than 12 illegal refining sites in Abia and River states were destroyed by airstrikes from the air component of Operation Delta Safe.
The airstrikes were carried out following a surveillance operation by operatives of the Nigerian Air Force, which revealed the presence of active illegal refining sites in both states.
A statement on Sunday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, AVM Edward Buba, said three of the 12 illegal refining sites were destroyed in Umueze, Abia State.
He said, “In efforts aimed at minimising the activities of oil thieves and other economic saboteurs, Nigerian Air Force aircraft under Operation Delta Safe, on July 26, 2024, carried out several strikes that led to the destruction of 12 illegal refining sites and 2 reservoirs located in Abia and Rivers states.
“In Umueze in Abia State, armed reconnaissance undertaken by the aircraft revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households.
“This information was subsequently relayed to ground troops for further exploitation and necessary action. Heading towards Owaza, three illegal refining sites were observed hidden under thick vegetation, which were subsequently destroyed.”
Gabkwet added that after the operation in Abia, the crew proceeded to Komkom and Okoloma in River State and destroyed nine refining sites and two reservoirs.
He said, “Thereafter, the crew followed the river line down to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where nine illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were discovered and destroyed. In total, 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were destroyed.
“The sighting of illegal refining sites in fenced living environments is indicative of the sophistry of the illegal oil refining trade that would require other means beyond air strikes to checkmate. “
Gabkwet, therefore, urged individuals operating illegal oil refining sites within fenced areas to cease their activities due to the associated health risks.
He said, “Those engaged in these acts, especially in fenced living environments, are again reminded of their danger to human lives and health as well as the environment.
“Be that as may, armed reconnaissance missions, as well as the destruction of illegal refining sites, will continue unabated until crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage are reduced to the barest minimum.”
