In the course of “Operation Still Waters 3,” the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt achieved the demolition of 233 illegal refineries spread across four states in 2023
A report from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) indicates that the four refineries, which were destroyed, were located in the South-South region, covering Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers.
The announcement was made on Monday by Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division, in Port Harcourt during the 2023 West African Social Activities celebration of the army.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam, disclosed that 1,112 suspected oil thieves were apprehended during the special military exercise in the four states.
‘In 2023, we successfully completed scheduled exercises with a lot of positive gains. Worthy of note is the field training exercise tagged “Exercise Still Waters 3.’’
‘The exercise has gone a long way in curtailing criminal activities and other heinous crimes in the 6 Division’s area of responsibility.
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‘Over the duration of the exercise, we were able to make 1,112 arrests; destroyed 233 illegal refineries, and seized 1,111,900 million litres of illegally refined petroleum products.’
‘Troops also impounded 72 trucks and other vehicles and recovered more than 356 arms and ammunitions during the period,’ he said.
Abdussalam reassured that the army is committed to consolidating its achievements in 2023, aiming to contribute significantly to the Federal Government’s target for crude oil production in 2024.
He underscored that the army’s ability to meet expectations depends on the troops’ ongoing dedication, focus, and commitment in carrying out their shared responsibilities.
‘We must ensure zero tolerance for oil theft and activities that will affect peace and stability across the Niger Delta and the country as a whole.’
‘We will continue to contentiously perform our constitutional roles to defend democratic values.’
‘We will not rest, and we will continue to go after criminals who attack us until we get them and make them to pay a higher price for their crimes,’ he stressed.
The GOC assured that the division is prepared to go to any extent required to facilitate the increase in crude oil output in 2024.