Troops Recover, Destroy 14 Boats in Abia Oil Bunkering Operation
In a move against oil bunkering activities, troops of Operation UDOKA have successfully recovered and destroyed 14 boats along with numerous drums of crude oil in Isimini Waterside, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.
The operation, led by Major Gen. Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division of the Nigerian Army Enugu, marks a significant blow against economic sabotage in the region.
The five-day operation, conducted based on actionable intelligence, culminated in the apprehension of six suspects who were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and prosecution.
Speaking to reporters at the scene, Major Gen. Dada, accompanied by Brig. Gen. Olusola Diya, the Brigade Commander of 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ohafia, detailed the operation’s success.
“Troops intercepted and dismantled a network of oil bunkerers who had been disrupting oil pipelines in the area. We seized eight large Cotonu boats and several smaller vessels used by the criminal syndicate,” he disclosed.
Highlighting the severity of the issue, Major Gen. Dada emphasized that the stolen crude was either refined locally or smuggled to foreign markets at exorbitant prices, funding criminal activities detrimental to national security.
“The leader of the cartel is currently evading arrest, but we are determined to ensure that no economic saboteur finds refuge within our operational zones,” he asserted.
The GOC underscored the link between oil bunkering and terrorism financing, stressing the military’s commitment to eradicating such activities.
“We will not relent until all perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice. Those involved must cease their illegal activities or face the full consequences of the law,” he warned.
Operation UDOKA, which focuses on safeguarding critical national assets and combating economic sabotage, reaffirmed its resolve to maintain vigilance and uphold security in the joint operational area.
Major Gen. Dada concluded with a stern message to all potential offenders: “This operation is ongoing, and we will leave no stone unturned. We urge anyone involved in illegal oil bunkering to reconsider their actions or face severe repercussions.”
The operation signifies a proactive stance by the Nigerian military in preserving the integrity of oil infrastructure and safeguarding national resources against illicit exploitation.
