Troops of the 2 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 4 of Operation DELTA SAFE, have intercepted a vehicle transporting about 1,200 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, during an anti-oil bunkering operation in Akwa Ibom State.
The military said the operation was carried out on Sunday, July 26, along the Onna–Etinan Road following credible intelligence and surveillance on suspected illegal oil bunkering activities in the area.
According to the Army, troops conducting a routine anti-illegal oil bunkering patrol at about 7:30 a.m. identified an Infiniti Jeep with registration number EPE 937 EY, believed to be conveying illegally refined petroleum products.
The driver reportedly attempted to evade arrest after sighting the troops, prompting a pursuit by the security personnel.
Unable to escape, the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush, leaving behind the petroleum products.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 40 nylon bags containing approximately 1,200 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil with an estimated market value of ₦2,256,000.
Military authorities said the recovered products and the vehicle had been secured in line with the mandate of Operation DELTA SAFE, which is tasked with combating crude oil theft, illegal refining and other economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.
The Army noted that the operation was completed without casualties or any security incident.
Commenting on the operation, the military said the successful interception demonstrated the troops’ commitment to disrupting the activities of illegal oil bunkerers and protecting the nation’s critical oil infrastructure.
“The troops remain resolute in sustaining operations against crude oil theft, illegal refining and other forms of economic sabotage in the Niger Delta. We will continue to deny criminal elements the freedom to operate while safeguarding national assets,” the statement said.
The military also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that would aid ongoing operations against oil theft and related crimes.
Operation DELTA SAFE has intensified operations across the Niger Delta in recent months as part of efforts to curb illegal refining, protect oil facilities and boost Nigeria’s crude oil production.
