Nigerian army intensifies crackdown on oil theft in Niger Delta, arrests 16 suspects

Troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have intensified their operations against oil thieves in the Niger Delta, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects and the destruction of 14 illegal refining sites.

The military operation, which took place between February 24 and March 2, 2025, targeted illegal oil bunkering activities across Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states. Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, the division’s spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, revealed that the troops also recovered 24,000 liters of stolen petroleum products.

Meanwhile, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, Major General Eric Emekah, reaffirmed the army’s commitment to eradicating illegal oil activities in the region.

He assured that his troops remain fully prepared to dismantle criminal networks involved in oil theft, ensuring stability and economic security in the Niger Delta.