The Nigerian Army has made a shocking discovery of over 40 illegal crude oil wells in Rumuekpe community, in the Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, Africa Today News, New York reports.
The illegal oil wells were uncovered on Wednesday evening during an operation led by the General Officer Commanding, Nigerian Army 6 Division, General Jamal Abdusallam.
Speaking to Journalists shortly after the operation, Major General Abdusallam noted that the wells which are approximately 40 feet deep, represent a new tactic employed by criminals to siphon crude oil from underground reserves.
Major General Abdusallam emphasised the significance of this discovery in the fight against oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta.
According to him, the perpetrators devised a method of excavating deep into the ground to access crude oil deposits directly. He expressed concern over the danger posed by these activities to both the environment and individuals involved.
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Major General Abdussalam also said he will notify relevant authorities and deploy troops to prevent further exploitation of the area.
Africa Today News, New York gathered that several suspects were apprehended at the crime scene and are currently in military custody to enable further investigations.
One suspect, speaking anonymously, admitted that the wells were allegedly owned by various families in the community.
While describing the hazardous process of digging, the suspect highlighted the risks involved, including gas inhalation and suffocation.
The suspect revealed that individuals involved in the operation were paid around N40,000 to excavate a well, emphasizing the communal ownership of the resource and the perilous nature of their endeavors.
In another report, in order to strengthen the naira against the dollar, human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to join economic bloc BRICS and sell the Nigerian crude to foreigners in naira and not in the United States’ currency.
He also said the Federal Government should reduce its reliance on the economic predictions and policies of Bretton Woods institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.