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Nigerian troops have delivered a powerful
blow to criminal elements in the South South, as revealed by Major General Michael
Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, during a key update from the
Defence Headquarters. Under Operation DELTA SAFE, forces swiftly responded to
distress calls involving sea piracy, militancy, and related crimes, thwarting
massive oil theft attempts throughout the month. Major General Onoja
reported the prevention of illegal siphoning amounting to 210,300 litres of
crude oil, 66,725 litres of Automotive Gas Oil, 660 litres of Dual Purpose
Kerosene, and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, while troops dismantled 53
illegal refining sites, apprehended 81 oil thieves and other suspects, and
seized various arms and ammunition.
Building on this progress, ground
operations in Insit Ibom and Essien Udin Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom
State, along with Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, led to the arrest
of five additional suspects and the recovery of more weapons. Complementing
these efforts, the Air Component executed precise armed reconnaissance over
Bakana and Abuloma in the Niger Delta, spotting and neutralizing a large barge
engaged in petroleum product theft, thereby intensifying the crackdown on
illicit activities.
Guided by Chief of Defence Staff, General
Olufemi Oluyede's strategic vision, the Armed Forces are refining their
approaches to tackle shifting threats, promoting long-term regional stability. Major General
Onoja attributed these triumphs to robust inter-agency partnerships, local
community alerts, and the soldiers' steadfast adherence to their duties,
setting the stage for enhanced economic security and community well-being in
the South South.
The Defence Headquarters is unwavering in
its commitment to protecting lives and properties in the South South, channelling
increased resources, cutting-edge monitoring, and swift intervention units to
stave off any criminal comeback. With General Oluyede leading the charge, the
military vows to escalate initiatives, strengthen ties with area leaders, and
eliminate dangers to ensure a protected haven for citizens and essential assets
throughout the region.