The Nigerian Military has destroyed 53 illegal oil refineries in a renewed offensive against crude oil theft and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.
According to military authorities, the illegal facilities were uncovered during coordinated operations across several creek communities, where crude oil was being siphoned and refined unlawfully. The sites reportedly included storage tanks, cooking drums, hoses, and other equipment used in the illicit refining process.
The military said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to curb oil theft, environmental degradation, and revenue losses suffered by the country due to illegal refining activities. Officials stressed that such operations also pose severe environmental and safety risks to host communities.
Security forces reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the crackdown, warning that those involved in crude oil theft and illegal refining would continue to face decisive action. They also called on local communities to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely intelligence.
The Niger Delta has long battled the twin challenges of oil theft and environmental damage, with authorities insisting that dismantling illegal refineries is crucial to restoring economic stability and protecting livelihoods in the region.
