Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), operating under Operation DELTA SAFE, foiled oil theft activities valued at over N103.9 million in an effort to tackle the growing menace of crude oil theft and safeguard Nigeria’s economic lifeline.

The week-long offensive led to the recovery of 68,875 litres of stolen crude oil, 31,166 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 2,250 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).

Troops also dismantled and destroyed 18 illegal refining sites, along with 16 crude oil cooking ovens, 31 dugout pits, 19 boats, 34 storage tanks, and 79 drums used for the illicit trade.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, which emphasized the military’s commitment to eradicating economic sabotage—particularly oil theft—in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to ensure national security and food sufficiency.

“The AFN under the leadership of Gen. C.G. Musa remains steadfast and unwavering in its mandate to secure the nation’s territorial integrity, curb economic crimes, and protect Nigerians from all forms of threats,” the statement read.

In addition to dismantling oil theft operations, troops recovered pumping and drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, seven vehicles, and multiple mobile phones linked to illegal refining networks.

“At least 15 suspects involved in oil theft and other criminal acts were apprehended and handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution,” it added.

According to the statement, the operations come amid growing concerns over the economic damage caused by oil theft, which continues to undermine government revenues, threaten investor confidence, and jeopardize Nigeria’s position in the global oil market.

The illegal refining of crude oil has also led to environmental degradation and public health risks in the Niger Delta region.

Defence authorities have reiterated their resolve to sustain the crackdown—not only to restore sanity to the oil-rich South-South region but also to dismantle the criminal networks enabling the theft and refining of petroleum products.

Beyond oil theft, the AFN said it conducted a series of coordinated operations across the country aimed at flushing out terrorists, insurgents, and criminal elements threatening national peace and security.

It noted that in the North East, under Operation HADIN KAI, dozens of terrorists from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram surrendered, while others were neutralized during offensive raids in Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, and Damboa LGAs of Borno State.

“Seventeen kidnapped victims were rescued, and arms and ammunition were recovered,” the military reported.

The statement further disclosed that in the North West, troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA neutralized terrorists and rescued over 120 kidnapped victims in operations spanning Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States.

Similarly, in the North Central, operations in Plateau, Benue, and Niger States led to the arrest of kidnappers, arms smugglers, and extremist informants.

“In the South East, troops under Operation UDO KA neutralized members of a violent gang in Imo State, including one identified as ‘Goodluck’ alias ‘Arrow.’ Weapons, vehicles, and motorcycles were recovered, while over 3,000 litres of illegally refined crude oil were also seized during operations in Anambra and Abia States,” the AFN reported.

Meanwhile, in the South-South region, troops also conducted further raids in Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers States, resulting in the arrest of nine suspected vandals and kidnappers—further tightening the noose on oil criminals and their collaborators.

The statement emphasized that the ongoing operations were heightened as the rainy season approaches, to ensure farmers can return to their farmlands without fear of attacks, supporting food security objectives set by President Tinubu.

“The AFN is not negotiating national security or the welfare of its personnel,” it declared, noting that all operations are being conducted within the framework of the law and in accordance with global best practices.

The military urged Nigerians to continue providing credible information to support its operations, reassuring the public that troops remain committed to defeating terrorism, banditry, and economic sabotage in all forms.
“Together, we shall overcome,” the statement concluded.