In a decisive push to eradicate oil theft and secure Nigeria's vital economic lifeline, Operation DELTA SAFE has intensified anti-crude oil theft operations across the South-South region, arresting 59 criminals, rescuing hostages, and recovering over 175,000 litres of stolen petroleum products while destroying 32 illegal refining sites, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has revealed.
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, made this known during a media briefing with journalists on Friday, 27, February 2026 at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of maritime and land components of the armed forces, alongside other security agencies, in dismantling processing equipment and safeguarding national assets from economic saboteurs.
"Operation DELTA SAFE has ramped up measures against oil theft, with troops recovering one hundred and forty-four thousand and fifty (144,050) litres of crude oil and thirty-one thousand, six hundred and one (31,601) litres of Automated Gas Oil (AGO)," Major General Onoja stated. "These actions underscore our unyielding commitment to protecting Nigeria's oil and gas infrastructure, which is the backbone of our national economy."
In a significant breakthrough, troops arrested two suspected gunrunners on 21 February 2026 in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, and Adim, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State. Acting on credible intelligence and in close collaboration with the Department of State Services, a targeted raid was conducted on 25 February 2026 at one of the suspects' residences. The operation yielded one locally fabricated pistol, pistol components, specialised fabricating tools, and a substantial cache of assorted ammunition.
In a related intelligence-driven sweep during the same operation, troops arrested another suspect at his residence, recovering three additional locally made pistols, one semi-automatic fabricated pistol, one rifle bayonet, and one rifle barrel. All suspects and recovered items are in custody for further investigation and prosecution.
The DHQ is resolute in its mandate to completely curb oil theft in Nigeria, drawing inspiration from global benchmarks like Saudi Arabia and the United States, where such illicit activities have been effectively eliminated through robust enforcement, technology, and community partnerships. Major General Onoja emphasised that sustained operations like DELTA SAFE are pivotal steps toward achieving zero-tolerance for oil theft, preventing billions in revenue losses, mitigating environmental degradation from spills, and protecting the livelihoods of law-abiding citizens. "Just as Saudi Arabia and the USA have fortified their oil sectors against theft through integrated security frameworks, Nigeria's Armed Forces are deploying advanced surveillance, joint task forces, and non-kinetic interventions to ensure our oil fields are impregnable," he affirmed. These efforts align directly with the constitutional mandate to secure lives and properties by halting economic sabotage that fuels poverty, insecurity, and underdevelopment in the Niger Delta.
Complementing kinetic operations, the military has partnered with environmental agencies for comprehensive oil spill cleanups and community education programmes promoting legal livelihoods. These initiatives aim to reduce reliance on illicit activities, foster ecological restoration, and bolster economic health, thereby enhancing public safety and investor confidence in the region.
Major General Onoja noted that the operations have led to the rescue of several kidnapped hostages, who have been safely reunited with their families, further demonstrating the forces' dedication to civilian protection amid the fight against crime.
"The Nigerian Armed Forces remains steadfast in defending the nation's territorial integrity and securing the lives and properties of all citizens," Major General Onoja reiterated. "By eradicating oil theft and related criminality, we are paving the way for sustainable development and prosperity in the South-South and beyond."
The DHQ urged patriotic Nigerians to provide actionable intelligence on criminal hideouts and activities, assuring confidentiality and swift response. Criminal elements were warned to repent or face overwhelming military might.