NAF destroys illegal crude refining sites in Rivers State

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully carried out air interdiction missions in Rivers State, destroying two illegal crude oil refining sites along the Imo River.

According to Group Capt Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, the air strikes conducted on September 13, 2024, aimed to curb crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.

“The missions targeted specific sites in Owaza, Uzaku, Obuzor, Osuaku, and Obiaku areas,” Group Capt Ali said. “In the first mission, NAF aircraft provided Close Air Support to ground troops near the Imo River. During an Armed Reconnaissance operation, the aircrew identified an active illegal refining site at Uzaku and engaged it, destroying four Illegal Refining Site (IRS) tanks and two canoes.”

Read also: Gunmen attack Umunze police station in Anambra, killing two officers

He further explained that a second mission, initially intended to support troops northwest of Umuahia, was diverted due to adverse weather conditions. “The crew conducted further Armed Reconnaissance around the Obuzor section of the Imo River, destroying 12 IRS tanks, jerrycans, and equipment used by criminals in Owaza, Obuzor, Osuaku, and Obiaku.”

Group Capt Ali reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to conducting air operations against oil thieves and other criminals in the Niger Delta, supporting ground forces across the region. He emphasized the importance of law-abiding citizens supporting security agencies’ efforts to deter economic saboteurs.

“The collective effort will go a long way in checkmating the activities of these criminals,” he said.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now