The Nigerian Army says it has uncovered 40 illegal crude oil wells at Rumuekpe community in the Emohua LGA of Rivers state.
Jamal Abdusallam, general officer commanding (GOC) of 6 division Nigerian Army, said the oil wells were discovered during an operation by the troops on Wednesday.
He said the wells are approximately 40 feet deep and revealed a new tactic employed by “criminals” to draw crude oil from underground reserves.
Abdusallam said the perpetrators devised a method of excavating deep into the ground to access oil deposits directly.
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He added that the crude means of exploration poses danger to the environment and individuals involved.
The major general said several suspects were arrested and are currently in military custody to enable further investigations.
In January, the Nigerian Navy arrested 11 persons for allegedly attempting to construct an illegal refinery in the state.
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