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Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE have intensified coordinated security
operations across the South-South region, recording major breakthroughs against
criminal networks, oil thieves and drug traffickers. This was disclosed by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media
Operations on Friday, 20 March 2026. According to the
report, troops working closely with the DSS, NDLEA and other security agencies
carried out a series of intelligence-led operations between 12 and 17 March
2026. In Bayelsa State, a joint operation in Yenagoa LGA led to the arrest of
three kidnapping suspects, while in Delta State, troops apprehended another suspect
in Warri South LGA with a locally made pistol and ammunition. In Cross River
State, troops intercepted two suspected ammunition couriers in Obubra LGA, with
follow-up operations uncovering additional weapons and explosive-making
materials. The same day also saw the arrest of 20 suspected drug peddlers in
Yenagoa, alongside the discovery of an illegal oil bunkering site in Warri
South LGA containing tankers, barges and large volumes of suspected illegally
refined petroleum products.
Sustained follow-up operations further
disrupted criminal activities across the region. On 16 March 2026, troops
responding to a kidnapping incident in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State
neutralized one kidnapper and successfully rescued three victims. Additional
anti-drug operations on 17 March 2026 in Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa States led to
multiple arrests and the recovery of hard drugs. In Rivers State, troops
uncovered and dismantled an illegal refining site in Tai LGA, confiscating
about 1,500 litres of refined products. On 18 March 2026, troops in conjunction
with Tantita operatives intercepted a Mercedes Benz vehicle in Ughelli North
LGA carrying 22 jerrycans of illegally refined AGO, leading to the arrest of
two suspects. Similarly, on 19 March 2026, troops in Abonnema, Rivers State
intercepted a speedboat loaded with 25 sacks of illegally refined AGO, while
suspects fled on sighting the troops and the recovered items were secured in
line with operational procedures.
These achievements underscore the growing
effectiveness of joint military and inter-agency collaboration in tackling
economic sabotage and criminality in the Niger Delta. By targeting illegal
refining sites, drug networks and kidnapping syndicates simultaneously, the
Armed Forces of Nigeria are
not only protecting national revenue but also improving safety and stability in
affected communities. The operations highlight a deliberate strategy to
dismantle both the operational and financial backbone of criminal enterprises
in the region.
The
Armed Forces of Nigeria reassure citizens of their unwavering commitment to
defending the nation’s economic assets and ensuring peace across the
South-South. Nigerians are encouraged to continue supporting security agencies
with credible information, as public cooperation remains vital in sustaining
these gains. With continued vigilance and coordinated efforts, the military
remains resolute in its mission to deny criminals any safe haven and secure a
safer future for all.