The air component of Operation Delta Safe has successfully destroyed seven illegal refining sites in Rivers State and bombed four boats loaded with illegally refined products. The operations, conducted on April 12 and 13, 2024, targeted communities in Rivers State known for illegal refining activities, including Idama, Ogbomkiri, Arugbana, Ivy Island, and Samkiri.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, stated that the operations have significantly reduced the capabilities of oil thieves in the Niger Delta Region. The air strikes targeted active illegal refining sites and boats transporting illegal products, disrupting their activities.
Gabkwet highlighted specific incidents, such as the engagement of an active illegal refining site in Idama and the destruction of four boats loaded with illegally refined products. At Arugbana, oil thieves were observed attempting to establish an illegal refining site but fled upon sighting the approaching aircraft.
Overall, the operations led to the discovery and destruction of seven illegal refining sites and four boats involved in illegal activities. These efforts are part of ongoing operations to curb illegal oil refining and related activities in the Niger Delta Region.
