In a decisive move to combat oil theft and curb the activities of economic saboteurs in the Niger Delta region, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted air strikes on six illegal refining sites and five Cotonou boats in Rivers State.
Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF’s spokesperson, in a statement, revealed that air strikes were conducted on Sunday, Movement 12 after the NAF had received intelligence revealing the presence of three active Illegal Refining Sites (IRS) and two Cotonou boats siphoning crude oil from pipelines at Cawthorne Channel and Alakri
He stated, “Similar strikes were also carried out at Krakama in Rivers State on the same day on three Cotonou boats sighted conveying suspected illegal refined products.
“On 13 November 2023, NAF aircraft also struck some sites at Dariama village in Rivers State following an intelligence report of illegal refining activities near the location.
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On arrival, three IRS tanks, pipes, and pumping machines, as well as Cotonou boats loaded with suspected illegally refined products, were sighted, engaged, and subsequently destroyed.”
“The intensified air operations were proactive measures to safeguard the economic interests of the nation and deter criminal elements involved in oil theft,” he added.
In conclusion, the Air Commodore emphasized that “the NAF, alongside sister Services and other security agencies, remains committed in its efforts at securing vital government resources and infrastructure in the Niger Delta Region and beyond.”