In an ongoing operation to combat illegal oil bunkering, the Nigerian Army conducted a raid on illegal mining sites at Obeaku in Ukwa West Local Government Area, Abia State, on Monday evening, arresting 17 suspects involved in these illicit activities. This operation follows the arrest of seven other suspects last Friday at Isimmiri Waterside in the same local government area.
During a press briefing at the illegal refinery site, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Major General Hassan Dada, accompanied by the Commander of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Brigadier General Olusola Diya, and other top military officials, detailed the ongoing efforts.
"We are here in furtherance of the operation that the media was invited about a few days ago concerning illegal oil bunkering in Obeaku, which is degrading the environment," Major General Dada said. He highlighted the discovery of another illegal refinery site with over 15 refineries in operation, stating that the military has been dismantling and removing these facilities to prevent further access and use.
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The GOC revealed that over 5 million litres of crude oil had been siphoned from these illegal activities, posing significant threats to both the economy and the environment. "The operation is ongoing," he emphasized, noting that the military is extending its operations to other areas to ensure that all forms of illegal bunkering and refining within the “Operation Udoka” joint operation area are eradicated.
He warned operators of illegal bunkering to cease their activities immediately, as those found guilty of economic sabotage would face severe legal consequences. "They must stop this because, at the end of the day, they may spend many years behind bars for any illegality they are doing," he asserted.
One of the arrested suspects, a woman, claimed she was only selling cellophane materials and did not recognize any of the other suspects. Cellophane was identified as a major material used in the illegal oil refinery business in the area.
The Nigerian Army's continued efforts in these operations underscore their commitment to protecting the nation's economy and environment from the detrimental effects of illegal oil bunkering.
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