Army confiscates 14 illegal oil bunkering vessels laden with stolen crude

The Nigerian Army has vowed to clamp down on economic saboteurs involved in the vandalism of crude oil installations in the Niger Delta region.

The General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, said in a statement obtained by Persecondnews that six suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal oil bunkering, noting that 14 illegal oil bunkering vessels laden with stolen crude oil were confiscated.

Dada disclosed that the arrest was carried out during an operation against suspected oil thieves at Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West Local Government Area.

The GOC, accompanied by the Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Olusola Diya, said that the suspects had been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigations and prosecution.

He stated that the Army was at the creek to prevent economic sabotage in its joint operation area as part of Operation Udoka.

“We were in Asa since Thursday, conducting operations against saboteurs that are trying to take out the crude oil that is the mainstay of our economy,” he said.

The General Officer Commanding 82 Division said that the operation was based on an intelligence report, adding that the suspects had attempted to start siphoning the crude from the pipeline before they were arrested.

He said the suspects had sunk some crude oil-laden boats in the water before the troops got there, adding that the troops were in the process of recovering others.

The GOC said that all 14 boats were destroyed in line with the Standing Operating Procedure.

“The person that is involved in this particular location is on the run presently, but we will get him. It’s just a matter of time. This is more of a cartel and we believe that a lot of people are involved. The proceeds are being used to finance these acts of terrorism.

“But as a note of warning, this is just the beginning. We will continue with this operation and make sure no stone is left unturned.

“The Nigerian Army will in no way tolerate any form of sabotage to the economy of this country,” Dada said.