The Defence Headquarters on Friday disclosed that troops engaged in counter-oil theft and security operations dismantled 16 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta over the past week.

During the operations, security forces deactivated 29 crude oil cooking ovens, 31 dug-out pits, and 21 storage tanks, while arresting 11 suspected crude oil thieves and saboteurs.

Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, said troops successfully prevented the siphoning of crude oil valued at over ₦536.7 million and confiscated 48 smuggling boats. They also rescued several kidnapped victims.

The operation led to the recovery of 392,174 litres of stolen crude oil, 138,757 litres of illegally refined diesel (AGO), 830 litres of petrol (PMS), and 375 litres of kerosene (DPK). Other recovered items included pumping machines, drilling equipment, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and vehicles.

Troops also intensified clearance raids, ambushes, and special operations targeting terrorists, bandits, and criminal elements in different parts of the country. These resulted in the neutralisation of several terrorists and the arrest of gunrunners, oil theft collaborators, and violent extremists. Security forces recovered arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, RPG tubes, pump-action guns, and explosives.

In Anambra and Imo States, troops arrested three suspected terrorists and rescued four kidnapped victims. In Delta and Rivers States, security forces apprehended six criminals, including a suspected kidnapping kingpin. Multiple operations across the country led to the recovery of IEDs, firearms, ammunition, and stolen property. Additionally, dozens of ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists surrendered following intensified military pressure.

Troops launched clearance operations in Borno and Yobe States, eliminating terrorists and capturing key insurgents, including a senior fighter, Abdullahi Ali. Security forces also repelled attacks and destroyed improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along major routes. In Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States, military units engaged terrorists, eliminating threats and recovering weapons, radios, and stolen vehicles. Troops also disrupted terrorist supply networks and rescued several kidnapped victims.

Security operations in Plateau, Kaduna, and Kogi States led to the neutralisation and arrest of extremists, while criminal hideouts were dismantled. Hostages were freed, and AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and motorcycles were recovered.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, Maj. Gen. Kangye urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to security agencies.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to fulfil its constitutional mandate to protect Nigerians in line with our Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct for Internal Security Operations,” he assured.