NAF Airstrikes Destroy 13 Illegal Refining Sites and Overhead Tanks in Niger Delta

 

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced a significant achievement in its ongoing efforts to combat illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region. On Sunday, NAF's Air Component of Operation Delta Safe successfully destroyed 13 illegal refining sites, 10 overhead tanks, and various containers filled with illegally refined products near Obuzor and Okoloma.

Strategic Airstrikes Target Illegal Refining Operations

According to a statement by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information, this successful operation is a result of increased aerial patrols by the Air Force, particularly in the Niger Delta region. The mission aimed to identify and neutralize illegal refining activities that exploit the challenging terrain to carry out their operations.

"In one of our most effective operations conducted along the Imo River near Obuzor and Okoloma, several active illegal refining sites were discovered. These sites, numbering about 13, were using the difficult terrain to perpetrate their illegal activities," the statement said.

Destruction of Refining Sites and Equipment

The NAF aircrew employed advanced weaponry on board their aircraft to target and destroy the illegal sites. In addition to the refining sites, several overhead tanks connected to reservoirs and numerous gallons of illegally refined products were also obliterated during the operation.

"These sites were subsequently destroyed after the crew employed the weapons on board the aircraft. Several overhead tanks connected to reservoirs as well as numerous gallons were also destroyed in the process," Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet confirmed.

Targeting Illegal Transportation of Refined Products

On the same day, the aircrew extended their patrol downstream along the riverbank. During this extended patrol, they spotted a 6-tyre tipper truck accompanied by four canoes, which were in the process of loading illegal products into the truck. Upon spotting the aircraft, the criminals fled the scene in disarray, leaving their equipment behind. The truck and canoes were swiftly targeted and destroyed by the NAF airstrike.

Continued Vigilance Over Key Infrastructure

The operation did not stop there. The NAF aircrew continued their patrol over the Trans Niger Pipeline, covering key points from Rumuekpe-Nkpoku to Bonny. The patrol included areas such as the End Point, Bodo trunk line, Small line attachment, Nkpoku-New Ebubu Trunkline, and Rumuekpe-Nkpoku line. Fortunately, no unusual activities were observed during this extended surveillance.

Key Points:

• Successful Airstrikes: NAF destroyed 13 illegal refining sites and 10 overhead tanks in the Niger Delta.
• Targeted Operations: The operation took place near Obuzor and Okoloma, key areas known for illegal refining activities.
• Continued Surveillance: NAF remains vigilant, extending patrols over crucial infrastructure like the Trans Niger Pipeline.
• Commitment to Security: The Air Force's increased patrols are part of a broader effort to secure the Niger Delta region and protect Nigeria's resources.

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