RIVERS (Sundiata Post) – In a concerted effort to eradicate illicit activities perpetrated by oil thieves and pipeline vandals in the Niger Delta Region, the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe executed air strikes on 23 December 2023, resulting in the destruction of six illegal oil refining sites situated in Opu Arugbana, within the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, reported the successful execution of the operation.
He said the unauthorized facilities were identified within close proximity, approximately 80 metres apart, at a location situated six nautical miles south of Opu Arugbana.
Subsequent to the confirmation of their operational status, official authorization was granted to neutralize the six sites, effectively dissuading criminals from perpetuating their illegal activities.
Notwithstanding the festive season, aerial operations targeting criminal elements in the Niger Delta and other regions of the country persist without interruption.
Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, who marked Christmas Day alongside troops in the Northeast and is presently in Katsina to celebrate with troops of Operation Hadarin Daji, lauded the diligent efforts of the Air Component Commanders across all operational theaters.
He urged them to remain resolute until criminal activities are significantly curtailed.
