Operation Delta Safe: Army Troops Neutralise Nine Illegal Refineries, Arrest 69 Suspects

The Nigerian Army has dealt a significant blow to the network of oil thieves operating in the Niger Delta, announcing the arrest of 69 suspected criminals and the destruction of nine illegal refining sites. The operation, which spanned a two-week period from August 11 to August 24, 2025, is the latest in a series of relentless efforts by the military to curb economic sabotage in the nation’s oil-rich region.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of the 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the successful operation was conducted in collaboration with other security agencies under the banner of Operation Delta Safe. Danjuma said the troops’ sustained efforts have continued to yield positive results in the fight against oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and related crimes.

The raids were carried out across multiple states, including Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta. In Rivers State, troops successfully deactivated several illegal refining sites in local government areas like Degema, Omoku, and Oyigbo, where they recovered over 10,000 litres of stolen products, wooden boats, and other refining equipment. In Delta State, the operation led to the interception of two trucks carrying over 15,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Sapele. Three suspects were arrested in the process, and other seizures were recorded in Warri North.

Lt. Col. Danjuma highlighted the significance of the operation, stating that it not only disrupted the criminals’ supply chains but also deprived them of the equipment needed to continue their illicit trade. The recovered petroleum products, estimated at a total of 32,000 litres, were properly disposed of in line with established operational mandates.

Danjuma assured the public that all 69 suspects arrested would be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution. He also reiterated the commitment of the 6 Division, under the leadership of its General Officer Commanding, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, to intensify its operations and create an enabling environment for legitimate exploration activities to thrive.

This latest success underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-gathering and inter-agency collaboration in the fight against a menace that costs Nigeria billions of dollars in lost revenue annually. For the military, it is a clear message to oil thieves and economic saboteurs that their days of operating with impunity are numbered.