Troops uncover illegal refining site in Rivers, destroy equipment
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops under Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe, have uncovered and destroyed an illegal refining site in Orashi National area of Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Security sources said the operation was carried out at about 10:00 a.m. on April 11 by joint troops of 5 Battalion, 16 Brigade Garrison and 103 Battalion (Motorised).
According to the sources, the troops discovered an illegal refining site with two long galvanized pipes measuring about 500 metres, and three hoses estimated at about 100 metres.
They added that other items recovered include a large reservoir containing stolen crude oil estimated at about 20,000 litres, a big drum oven, and a receiver containing already refined products estimated at about 12,000 litres.
The sources further disclosed that a large coolant system, two active small drum ovens, and two drum receivers containing products suspected to be kerosene, estimated at about 80 litres, were also found at the site.
They said all discovered items were destroyed in situ in line with the mandate of Operation Delta Safe.
The sources reaffirmed continued efforts to dismantle illegal refining operations and curb crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
