A joint operation by the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Tantita Security has successfully uncovered an illegal oil refining site in Ughelli South, Delta State.

Acting on intelligence, the vigilant troops stormed the location, revealing a significant operation engaged in illicit activities.

The site was found to contain 35 modular ovens, 3 fabricated reservoirs, 30 dug-out reservoirs, and 75 galvanized pipes, all used in the illegal refining of crude oil.

The operation took place on July 29, 2023, as part of a sustained effort to combat oil theft in the South-South region and safeguard the nation’s oil sector from economic sabotage.

Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, issued a statement highlighting the importance of denying oil thieves the freedom to operate and ensuring the protection of vital resources in the area.