Odita Sunday 
Military recovers 210,000 litres of stolen crude, destroys 53 illegal refineries in January
By Odita Sunday
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) say sustained military operations across the Niger Delta and other parts of the country led to the recovery of more than 210,000 litres of stolen crude oil, destruction of 53 illegal refining sites, and the arrest of 81 suspected oil thieves in January 2026.
The disclosure was made on Friday by Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, during a press briefing on ongoing military operations nationwide.
According to the Defence Headquarters, troops operating under Joint Task Force Operation DELTA SAFE recorded major successes against oil theft syndicates, illegal refiners and associated criminal networks that have continued to sabotage Nigeria’s oil production and revenue base.
Onoja said that within the month under review, troops foiled the theft of 210,300 litres of crude oil, 66,725 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), 660 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene, and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) across the Niger Delta region.
“Additionally, troops discovered and destroyed 53 illegal refining sites and arrested 81 oil thieves and other criminals, while assorted arms and ammunition were recovered,” he said.
As part of efforts to dismantle oil theft infrastructure, the Air Component of Operation DELTA SAFE conducted armed reconnaissance missions over key creeks and waterways notorious for illegal refining activities.
Onoja revealed that during surveillance flights over Bakana and Abuloma, military aircraft identified a large barge actively siphoning petroleum products.
“Targets were acquired and engaged accordingly,” he said, noting that the air operations were aimed at deterring further illegal refining and crude theft in the region.
On the ground, troops carried out offensive operations in Ini and Essien Udim local government areas of Akwa Ibom State, as well as Okpe LGA of Delta State, leading to the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
DHQ noted that oil theft continues to fuel other forms of criminality, including militancy, piracy and arms proliferation, making its suppression a key component of broader national security operations.
Across all theatres of operation nationwide in January, troops arrested 452 suspected terrorists, kidnappers and criminal elements, rescued 284 kidnapped victims, and recorded the surrender of 124 terrorists and their family members.
Military authorities said several criminal networks involved in oil theft also maintain links with armed groups operating in other regions, underscoring the need for coordinated operations across land, air and maritime domains.
Beyond the Niger Delta, troops under various joint task forces sustained operations against terrorists and criminal gangs in the North East, North West, North Central and South East, neutralising several high-value targets and dismantling logistics networks.
However, Onoja stressed that protecting oil and gas infrastructure remains a strategic priority due to its importance to national revenue and economic stability.
“Our troops continue to operate under challenging conditions to safeguard lives, property and critical national assets,” he said.
He reiterated its call for public cooperation, urging citizens to provide timely intelligence on illegal oil activities and other security threats.
Onoja also commended the media for responsible reporting and Nigerians for their support, noting that community collaboration remains critical to sustaining gains against oil theft and insecurity.
“With continued cooperation, we are confident of achieving lasting peace and stability,” he said, adding that the military will continue to adapt and respond decisively to evolving threats.
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