Rivers State security forces intensify crackdown on crude oil theft

Security agencies in Rivers State, Nigeria, are intensifying efforts to combat crude oil theft and economic sabotage. The Nigerian Navy recently uncovered approximately 182,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Bethel Creeks. During the operation conducted by the Forward Operating Base Bonny, personnel discovered eight dugout pits, five of which contained the suspected oil, along with hoses used for moving the substance.

This discovery follows a similar operation on September 8, where 87,000 litres of suspected stolen crude were found at illegal refining sites near Aworkiri.

In response to ongoing bunkering incidents, the Rivers State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has increased maritime surveillance by deploying two gunboats. The NSCDC reported conducting 81 operations against illegal oil bunkering in the past 100 days, resulting in 148 arrests.

Amidst reports of a recent tragedy at the NNPC Jetty in Okrika involving 37 fatalities, Indorama Eleme Petrochemical Limited has clarified that no deaths or bunkering activities occurred within its specific pipeline corridor at the Okari-Ama Community.