In a decisive crackdown on crude oil theft, security operatives have apprehended 25 individuals suspected of being involved in illegal oil activities across the Niger Delta. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) reported these developments in its recent documentary, “War on Crude Oil Theft.”
The documentary highlights that between August 31 and September 6, 2024, security forces identified and dismantled 63 unauthorized crude oil connections.
This operation involved several security entities, including Tantita Security Services, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Ltd., Manton Engineering, Heirs Energy Ltd., Oando PLC, the NNPCL Command and Control Centre, and various government security agencies.
According to the documentary, the 25 suspects have been transferred to government security agencies for further investigation. The coordinated efforts also led to the discovery of several clandestine storage sites.
In Rivers State, illegal storage facilities were uncovered in Okrika 6 and Guguma South East. Meanwhile, in Bayelsa State, crude oil intended for the black market was seized in Oliobiri and Kaima.
The documentary further reported an incident in Rivers State where law enforcement apprehended a vehicle carrying stolen crude oil in Jerry cans. The driver was arrested before escaping, underscoring the effectiveness of the operation.
These discoveries and arrests were the result of credible intelligence, marking a significant step in the ongoing fight against oil theft in the region. The NNPCL’s documentary underscores the collaborative efforts and commitment of various security agencies to combat this critical issue and protect Nigeria’s oil resources.