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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed 12 illegal refining sites in Abia and Rivers states through airstrikes conducted by Operation Delta Safe. The strikes followed a surveillance operation that identified active illegal refining locations.
A statement released on Sunday by AVM Edward Buba, the Director of Public Relations and Information for NAF, detailed the operation. “In efforts aimed at minimizing the activities of oil thieves and other economic saboteurs, Nigerian Air Force aircraft under Operation Delta Safe, on July 26, 2024, carried out several strikes that led to the destruction of 12 illegal refining sites and 2 reservoirs located in Abia and Rivers states,” he said.
The operation in Umueze, Abia State, targeted several illegal refining sites hidden in fenced households. This information was relayed to ground troops for further action. In Owaza, three additional illegal refining sites concealed under thick vegetation were destroyed.
The crew then moved to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where they destroyed nine refining sites and two reservoirs. AVM Edward Gabkwet highlighted the sophistication of illegal refining operations, noting that they are often hidden within residential areas, posing significant health risks.
Gabkwet urged individuals involved in illegal refining to cease their activities due to the associated dangers to human health and the environment. He emphasized that armed reconnaissance missions and the destruction of illegal refining sites will continue until crude oil theft and economic sabotage are minimized.
