The Nigerian army has destroyed 27 illegal refining sites and confiscated stolen crude oil in a series of raids conducted this week across the Niger River Delta, according to an army spokesperson.
Oil theft and pipeline sabotage have severely impacted Nigeria’s oil production, a critical sector for Africa’s largest oil producer. These criminal activities have led to reduced exports and strained government finances, presenting a significant challenge for President Bola Tinubu.
Acting army spokesperson Danjuma Jonah Danjuma reported that approximately 100,000 liters of stolen crude oil were recovered during the raids. Additionally, three vehicles loaded with illegally refined fuel were seized.
These operations are part of the army’s ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and related crimes, Danjuma added in a statement.