Army: Troops destroyed 233 illegal refineries in 2023 across four states

The Nigerian Army says 233 illegal refineries were destroyed in 2023 by troops during “Exercise still waters 3” in four states.

Jamal Abdussalam, general officer commanding (GOC) of 6 division Nigerian Army, announced the development on Monday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital.

The GOC said the illegal refineries were destroyed in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Delta and Rivers states.

He said the troops also arrested 1,112 suspected oil thieves during special  operations across the four states.

“In 2023, we successfully completed scheduled exercises with a lot of positive gains. Worthy of note is the field training exercise tagged “Exercise Still Waters 3,” NAN quoted Abdussalam as saying.

“The exercise has gone a long way in curtailing criminal activities and other heinous crimes in the 6 Division’s area of responsibility.

“Over the duration of the exercise, we were able to make 1,112 arrests; destroyed 233 illegal refineries, and seized 1,111,900 million litres of illegally refined petroleum products.

“Troops also impounded 72 trucks and other vehicles and recovered more than 356 arms and ammunitions during the period.”

“We must ensure zero tolerance for oil theft and activities that will affect peace and stability across the Niger Delta and the country as a whole.

“We will not rest, and we will continue to go after criminals who attack us until we get them and make them to pay a higher price for their crimes.”

The GOC further said the army would continue to fight oil theft to pave way for the increase of the country’s crude oil output in 2024.