The Air Component of Operation Delta Safe Haven destroyed 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs in Abia and Rivers states, respectively.
A statement by the director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, said the aircraft carried out armed air reconnaissance in Umueze, Abia State, on 26 July 2024, which revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households.
He said the information was subsequently relayed to ground troops for further exploitation and necessary action.
The director added that heading towards Owaza, three illegal refining sites were observed hidden under thick vegetations, which were subsequently destroyed.
He said the crew thereafter, followed the river line down to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where nine illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were discovered and destroyed.
“In total, 12 illegal refining sites and 2 reservoirs were destroyed,” he said.
AVM Gabkwet said the sighting of illegal refining sites in fenced living environments is indicative of the sophistry of the illegal oil refining trade that would require other means beyond air strikes to checkmate.
“Those engaged in these acts, especially in fenced living environments, are again reminded of their danger to human lives and health as well as the environment. Be that as may, armed reconnaissance missions, as well as the destruction of illegal refining sites, will continue unabated until crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage are reduced to the barest minimum,” he said.
