Crime

Military Operations Disrupt Oil Theft, Prevents Losses to Nigeria’s Economy

Published

2 months ago

November 22, 2024

Admin

By Faith Adama

The Nigerian military has achieved major progress in combating illegal oil theft, preventing nearly a billion Naira in losses to the national economy, according to Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.

In a statement on Thursday, Major General Buba highlighted the military’s recent successes in the ongoing battle against oil theft and its broader counter-terrorism efforts.

As part of its operations, the military has intensified efforts to dismantle illegal oil refining activities in the Niger Delta, recovering large quantities of stolen crude oil and illicitly refined products.

The operations led to the discovery and destruction of 78 crude oil cooking ovens, 56 illegal refining sites, and extensive oil storage equipment.

Additionally, over 872,000 liters of stolen crude oil and nearly 68,000 liters of illegally refined petroleum products were seized, along with 12 vehicles and 9 mobile phones linked to the illegal operations.

“These actions have saved the country an estimated N921.8 million, securing vital oil revenue and mitigating the economic fallout from this illegal activity,” said Major General Buba.

The military’s operations have played a crucial role in reducing the financial impact of oil theft, which has long been a significant drain on Nigeria’s economy.

In addition to disrupting oil theft, the military has targeted criminal groups associated with terrorist organizations, leading to the arrest of 51 individuals involved in various crimes, including oil theft.

The operations also resulted in the recovery of over 140 weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition, further crippling the capabilities of criminal networks.

The Nigerian military emphasized the strategic importance of these efforts in ensuring national security. The armed forces continue to engage in intelligence-gathering, airstrikes on terrorist strongholds, and ground assaults on illegal oil refining operations to weaken criminal groups and reduce their resources.

Major General Buba underscored the significance of these efforts, stating that they not only protect the nation’s economy but also contribute to the broader fight against terrorism and insurgency.

“We are committed to dismantling the criminal networks that threaten our economy and national security.

“Our operations in the Niger Delta have yielded significant results, and we will maintain our focus on targeting illegal activities that hinder our nation’s progress,” he concluded.

Through these focused military operations, Nigeria is steadily curbing oil theft and terrorism, safeguarding vital national resources and ensuring its economic future.

Crime

NSCDC Arrests 36 Scavengers in Abuja Crackdown

Published

7 days ago

January 17, 2025

Admin

By Patrick Idowu
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has arrested 36 scavengers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as part of an ongoing crackdown on rising criminal activities.
Announcing the arrests on Wednesday, FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu said the operation followed the recent ban on scavenging and the temporary closure of Pantaker Markets to curb vandalism of public infrastructure and security threats linked to scavengers.
“These individuals, under the guise of collecting scrap, have been implicated in crimes such as vandalizing manhole covers, streetlights, armored cables, and bridge reinforcements,” Odumosu stated.
He warned that some scavengers carry weapons, rob commuters, and act as informants for criminal gangs.
Residents have also reported missing household items, including generators and car batteries, often traced back to scavengers.
The FCT Command has deployed personnel to enforce the ban, with offenders facing arrest.
“Scavenging is now prohibited both day and night, and Pantaker Markets will remain closed for two weeks,” Odumosu emphasized.
During recent operations, security personnel recovered weapons and narcotics, including daggers, jack knives, chisels, iron rods, 45 wraps of Indian hemp, and 10 bottles of codeine syrup.
Odumosu urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, assuring that the NSCDC, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue efforts to maintain law and order in Abuja.

Crime

Alia Mourns Victims of Benue Truck Crash

Published

1 week ago

January 17, 2025

Admin

By Cynthia Abah

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident that claimed 10 lives in Okete, Ohimini Local Government Area.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, conveyed the governor’s condolences to the bereaved families, describing the incident as a devastating loss for the state.
Alia assured the affected families of the government’s support and pledged a full investigation to prevent future occurrences.
He prayed for the souls of the deceased and urged the community to rally around the grieving families in this difficult time.

Crime

Street Urchin in Soup for Stealing

Published

1 week ago

January 17, 2025

Admin

By Cynthia Abah

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested Abdullahi Sodiq, a street urchin, for allegedly stealing valuables, including an iPhone 12 Pro Max and travel documents, from a woman in Sagamu.
Police spokesperson CSP Omolola Odutola stated that officers from the Sakura Division apprehended Sodiq during a routine patrol after finding him in possession of a suspicious black nylon bag.
Upon investigation, the stolen items were traced to Iyabo Ogunubi, the rightful owner.
Authorities have assured that Sodiq will face prosecution while urging the public to remain vigilant against street theft.