The Nigerian Army took decisive action against illegal oil bunkering on Friday, destroying around 14 vessels caught with stolen crude oil in Asa Community, Abia.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Army operatives took drastic action against illegal oil bunkering vessels, setting them ablaze at Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West Local Government Area.
The vessels, including eight large Cotonou boats, were destroyed in a bid to curb economic sabotage and protect Nigeria’s oil resources.
Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, who spearheaded the operation, briefed the press on the success of the mission, revealing that six individuals were taken into custody in connection with the illegal oil bunkering activities.
Dada, who was accompanied by the Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Brig.-Gen. Olusola Diya said that the suspects had been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigations and prosecution.
He said that the Army was at the creek in respect of carrying out one of the mandates of Operation Udoka, “Which is to make sure that any form of economic sabotage does not happen within its joint operation area.
“We have been here since Thursday, conducting operations against saboteurs that are trying to take out the crude oil that is the mainstay of our economy,” he said.
Dada also noted that the operation was based on an intelligence report, adding that the suspects had attempted to start siphoning the crude from the pipeline before they were arrested.
He also said that the suspects had sunk some crude oil-laden boats in the water before the troops got there, adding that, the troops were in the process of recovering others.
The GOC said that all 14 boats were destroyed, in line with the Standing Operating Procedure.
“The person that is involved in this particular location is on the run presently but we will get him, it’s just a matter of time.
“This is more of a cartel and we believe that a lot of people are involved. The proceeds are being used to finance these acts of terrorism.
“But as a note of warning, this is just the beginning. We will continue with this operation and make sure no stone is left unturned. The Nigerian Army will in no way tolerate any form of sabotage to the economy of this country,” Dada said.
NAN
