JTF destroys 80 illegal refineries

The Joint Operation Delta Safe, have intensified raids on crude oil theft, leading to destruction of 80 illegal refineries across Delta, Bayelsa and River states.

This was contained in a press released signed by Major Abubakar Abdullahi, coordinator, Joint Media Campaign Centre.

According to Abdullahi, in Bayelsa State, troops patrol Obhoyohan and Ngiri creeks of Nembe Local Government Area and destroyed seven illegal refineries. These refineries contained 150,000 litres of suspected crude oil. The troop also arrested three suspects in connection with the illegal refineries.

Also in Delta State, troops patrol around Sara Abiteye Swamp in Warri South Local Government Area and discovered six illegal refineries consisting of four storage tanks and two dug out pits filled with products suspected to be stolen crude oil. The troop destroyed eight illegal refineries at Ajasolo Creek in Elume community.

The joint task force also destroyed nine illegal refineries comprised of four ground pits and three metal tanks filled with products suspected to be stolen crude oil at Katu Camp 5 in Warri South West Local Government Area, in addition to seven illegal refineries earlier destroyed around Opunami creeks.

Another patrol, conducted around Udu, Ughelli South Local Government Area led to the discovery of eight illegal refineries at Udu Trailer Park. The troop destroyed 1200 drums filled with 140 metric tonnes of illegally refined diesel.

In Rivers State, troops also destroyed 10 illegal refineries around Bolo in Bonny Local Government Area, in addition to 25 other areas raided at Creek 6 and Ijokiri in the same vicinity.

Abdullahi used the opportunity to warn against oil theft and implored Nigerians to continue to support Operation Delta Safe.