By Adedapo Adesanya
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 13 illegal refining sites and seven Cotonou boats in its continued fight against oil theft in Africa’s largest oil producer.
It was also disclosed that the operation dispersed 5 x J-5 buses attempting to siphon suspected crude oil products from surface tanks.m over a week (June 18-22).
A statement by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force said, “Some of the illegal sites were discovered near Imo River on 18 June 2024 with 7 overhead tanks, which were subsequently destroyed while several suspected bunkerers were seen fleeing.
“Air strikes were also extended to Wilcourt in Rivers State on 19 June 2024 after an illegal site and canoe filled with illegally refined products, as well as some gunboats, were seen.
“Similarly, following Intelligence of some illegal refining sites located about 6km from Tunu in Bayelsa State, the aircrew proceeded to identify and destroy the site, a task carried out with the utmost precision.
“Another significant strike undertaken by the air component was carried out on 22 June 2024, when the crew spotted 5 x J5 buses, probably reconfigured into mini tankers, at the bank of Imo River attempting to siphon illegally refined products.
“Amazed at this change of tactics by these economic saboteurs, the crew did not hesitate to destroy the illegal refining sites feeding the buses immediately. The J5 buses were later seen dispersed with some taking cover under trees to avoid detection.
“Air strikes against economic saboteurs and oil thieves have continued to record the expected outcomes majorly due to improved intelligence, enhanced air-to-ground coordination, and most importantly, due to NAF’s improved agility and resilience.
“These operations will be sustained until the activities of these saboteurs are reduced to the barest minimum.”