Troops uncover illegal crude oil refining site, recover 4,420 litres of stolen crude in Rivers
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army under the Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), have uncovered an illegal crude oil refining site and recovered an estimated 4,420 litres of stolen crude oil in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Security sources said the operation was conducted between 8:45 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2026, by troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, during an anti-illegal bunkering operation in Okarki Forest.
During the operation, the troops discovered four illegal refining sites equipped with crude oil processing facilities and other materials used for the illicit refining of petroleum products.
Items recovered included one small oven, three drum ovens, one iron bucket, two coolants and three pipes estimated to be about 70 metres long.
The troops also discovered 85 sacks of suspected stolen crude oil, with an estimated volume of 4,420 litres.
All recovered items were handled in accordance with extant regulations.
The operation forms part of sustained efforts by the Joint Task Force to dismantle illegal refining networks, curb crude oil theft and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
The military has continued to intensify operations against economic sabotage and illegal bunkering activities, which undermine national revenue and pose serious environmental and security risks to host communities.
