Katsina Times 

In a relentless effort to combat illegal activities in the Niger Delta Region (NDR), Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander of Joint Task Force, South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, has issued a stern warning against illegal oil bunkering.

During a recent operation in Obama and Uzoma, Kom-Kom Community, Oyingbo Local Government Area of Rivers State, the GOC led troops in raiding illegal bunkering sites. The crackdown resulted in the discovery of over 15 boilers, 9 reservoirs, extensive interconnected pipes, and other items used for large-scale criminal activities. The seized crude oil amounted to over 5 million liters, and numerous Cotonou boats, capable of transporting over 200,000 liters of crude oil, were intercepted en route.

Major General Abdussalam emphasized the commitment of troops to deny criminals freedom of action in the region. He urged those involved in illegal bunkering to abandon such activities, emphasizing that it is illegal, criminal, and detrimental to the environment.

The GOC highlighted the complexity of the illegal bunkering operations, indicating that it requires money, expertise, and careful planning. He called on perpetrators to embrace legitimate businesses and allow the government to carry out its duties.

The ongoing clampdown on economic vandals in the NDR is part of Operation DELTA SAFE's strategy to dismantle illegal economic hubs in the region. This operation follows the recent destruction of large-scale illegal bunkering sites in Odogwa, Etche Local Government Area.