The Nigerian Army has made a resolute commitment to combat the criminal activities plaguing the Niger Delta region, particularly the vandalism of crude oil installations. Maj. Gen. Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, reaffirmed this stance following a successful operation targeting suspected oil thieves at Isimmiri Waterside in Abia State’s Ukwa West Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Monday, Maj. Gen. Dada disclosed that the operation resulted in the arrest of six suspects involved in illegal oil bunkering. Additionally, the military seized 14 oil bunkering vessels loaded with stolen crude oil during the operation. Maj. Gen. Dada emphasized that these seized vessels, including eight large Cotonou boats, would be destroyed to prevent further illegal activities.
Accompanied by Brig. Gen. Olusola Diya, Commander of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Maj. Gen. Dada handed over the arrested suspects to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and prosecution. He underscored that the army’s presence in the creek was part of Operation Udoka’s mandate to safeguard against economic sabotage within its operational area.
“Our recent operations in Asa and Isimmiri Waterside were aimed at thwarting attempts to siphon crude oil, which is vital to our economy,” Maj. Gen. Dada stated. The operation, based on actionable intelligence, intercepted the suspects just as they were preparing to extract crude oil from pipelines.
According to Maj. Gen. Dada, the suspects had already sunk some crude oil-laden boats in the waters to evade capture. However, all 14 boats were located and destroyed in accordance with established procedures. Despite one key individual managing to flee, Maj. Gen. Dada assured that efforts to apprehend him were ongoing.
“This activity is indicative of a larger syndicate involving numerous individuals. The profits from such illicit operations are often channeled into financing terrorism,” Maj. Gen. Dada remarked, emphasizing the army’s determination to dismantle such networks completely.
He issued a stern warning, asserting that this operation marked just the beginning of intensified efforts. “The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its resolve to safeguard the nation’s economy from any form of sabotage,” Maj. Gen. Dada affirmed. He reiterated the army’s unwavering stance against activities detrimental to Nigeria’s economic interests.
The crackdown on illegal oil bunkering and vandalism of oil installations underscores the army’s proactive approach in addressing threats to national security and economic stability. The collaborative effort with other security agencies, such as the NSCDC, demonstrates a unified front against criminal elements exploiting Nigeria’s resources unlawfully.
Moving forward, Maj. Gen. Dada assured the public that Operation Udoka would persist in rooting out criminal syndicates involved in economic sabotage. “We are committed to leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of those jeopardizing our nation’s prosperity,” he declared.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Army’s decisive action in Isimmiri Waterside reflects its unwavering dedication to upholding national interests and securing critical infrastructure. By dismantling criminal networks engaged in illegal oil activities, the army reaffirms its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic prosperity and ensuring a secure environment for all citizens.
