The military Joint Task Force, under the Operation Delta Safe codename, revealed on Sunday the discovery of more than 50 illegal crude oil refining sites in the Biseni area of Bayelsa State’s Yenagoa Local Government Area.
Additionally, they uncovered a large open pit intended to accommodate over 10 trucks of Automotive Gas Oil, commonly known as diesel.
Commanding the operation, John Okeke, stated that illegal refining of stolen crude oil was occurring at each of the sites. Okeke had previously issued warnings to oil thieves in the area to cease their illicit refining activities.
He emphasized, “Today, as I mentioned earlier, we are committed to our mission, and it’s an ongoing effort. We won’t falter, we’ll persist.
“We’re currently in Biseni, located in the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. We traversed from Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State to reach this point.
“What’s most surprising is that this area houses over 50 illegal refining sites, each with its unique setup. Take a look at the dense forest surrounding us now.
“You’d never imagine such serious criminal activity taking place here. If it weren’t for the individual who provided valuable information, we wouldn’t have uncovered this.”
He explained that the thieves in the area had set up a theft line using a two-inch galvanized pipe directly connected to the oil supply line on the road, extending about one kilometer.
“Then they have various intricate connections, including D connections and multiple connections, where each thief receives their supply from a large open pit capable of holding more than 10 trucks of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) filled with crude oil, which they distribute to their refining sites,” the JTF commander explained.
Okeke emphasized that the military would persist in its campaign against oil theft and economic sabotage.
He stated, “I personally will advocate for more stringent measures to address this challenge because the country is suffering from these illicit oil activities. Allowing such activities to persist affects legitimate businesses as these criminals sell at much lower prices.”
“The government relies on revenue for developmental purposes. That’s why we are committed to continuing this fight, and we won’t back down,” he added.
Okeke encouraged individuals in the community to come forward with valuable information to help curb illegal activities.
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