In a significant step towards curbing illegal activities in the oil-rich region, operatives of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) successfully located and destroyed an illegal crude oil refining site in Rivers State. The operation, which took place on July 21, 2023, was part of the air component of the joint security effort codenamed Operation Delta Safe.
The success of the operation was largely attributed to intelligence-driven efforts and meticulous surveillance conducted by the NAF. The strike was executed at Dariama village, situated approximately 20 kilometers from Abonnema in the Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Air Force Air spokesman, confirmed the development, stating that the operation was aimed at curbing the activities of oil thieves and economic saboteurs in the region. He emphasized that such operations are regular occurrences in the area as part of efforts to safeguard the nation’s interests.
This recent achievement by the Nigerian Air Force adds to the ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil refining and criminal activities in the region. Just a week prior, the Nigerian Navy successfully located and dismantled another illegal crude oil refining site in the creeks of Degema Local Government Area of the state.
These proactive actions by the security forces demonstrate the commitment of the Nigerian government to protect its natural resources and combat illegal activities that have posed significant challenges to the nation’s economy and security. As Operation Delta Safe continues its efforts, it sends a clear message to those engaged in illegal activities that such actions will not be tolerated, and the authorities will take decisive measures to preserve the nation’s interests.
