Military clamps down on oil thieves, destroys 14 vessels in Abia

About 14 vessels found in Asa Community, Abia, containing stolen crude oil have been destroyed by the Nigerian Army on Friday as part of its resolute action against illegal oil bunkering.

The News Agency of Nigeria said that Army personnel at Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West Local Government Area took dramatic measures to combat illegal oil bunkering vessels by burning them on fire.

The vessels, including eight large Cotonou boats, were destroyed in a bid to curb economic sabotage and protect Nigeria’s oil resources.

Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, who spearheaded the operation, briefed the press on the success of the mission, revealing that six individuals were taken into custody in connection with the illegal oil bunkering activities.

Dada, who was accompanied by the Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Brig.-Gen. Olusola Diya said that the suspects had been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigations and prosecution.

He said that the Army was at the creek in respect of carrying out one of the mandates of Operation Udoka, “Which is to make sure that any form of economic sabotage does not happen within its joint operation area.

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

Dada also noted 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 also said that 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.

NAN