The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) recently reported the uncovering of at least 72 illegal refineries within a week across three states: Rivers, Delta, and Abia. This discovery is part of a broader crackdown on illegal oil refining operations in the Niger Delta region, which have been contributing significantly to environmental degradation and economic losses.
In a detailed video report, NNPCL showcased the extent of the illegal activities, highlighting the sophisticated but illicit setups used by these refineries. The operation to dismantle these sites was carried out with the assistance of security forces.
Additionally, on August 18, members of Operation Delta Safe apprehended a vessel with 12 suspects aboard in the Southern Ijaw area of Bayelsa State. The vessel was reportedly engaged in illegal oil bunkering activities. This interception is part of ongoing efforts to curb oil theft and protect the nation's resources.
The NNPCL reported that the tugboat was found carrying stolen Shell Petroleum Development Company flow lines.
“The tugboat was caught loaded with stolen Shell Petroleum Development Company flow lines, which shows that not only did the thieves break the pipelines in order to connect their pipes, but they also harvested oil pipelines as well,” the NNPC said.
The thieves not only broke into the pipelines to siphon oil but also removed sections of the oil pipelines themselves.
The 12 suspects are currently in custody for further investigation.
Additionally, NNPCL disclosed that 46 automatic identification system infractions were recorded at sea, and 24 wooden boats carrying stolen crude were intercepted in Rivers and Bayelsa States.
On land, several vehicles transporting stolen crude oil were also seized in Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa States.
During the same week, 33 illegal oil connections were discovered in the three states.
Eight incidents of oil spills, attributed to vandalism, were recorded, and 12 sites used for storing stolen crude and illegally refined products were uncovered.
“From August 17 to 23, 204 incidents of oil theft were recorded by different incident sources.
“47 of the incidents took place in the deep blue water, 10 in the western region, 100 in the central region and 47 in the eastern region,” it was disclosed.
In connection with these incidents, a total of 42 suspects have been arrested.
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