JTF arrests 699 suspects for oil theft, pipeline vandalism

Operation Delta Safe, a Joint Security Task Force in the South-South, has arrested 699 suspects for various crimes in the Niger Delta region in 2022.

The Commander of the Joint Task Force, Rear Admiral Aminu Hassan, at Igbogene, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Friday disclosed that in 2022, the operatives arrested 699 suspects, confiscated 90 assorted illegal weapons and large caliber ammunition and dismantled 1,883 illegal oil refining sites.

Hassan added that over 1,800 illegal oil refining sites and 37 militants and sea pirates’ camps were also destroyed across 12 states in the region within the period under review.

The commander said in the process, the operation was able to save over N53 billion worth of crude oil, diesel, kerosene and petrol.

He added that seven suspects were arrested in possession of illegal arms.

According to the commander, the feat was recorded following several operations conducted to safeguard oil and gas operations and installations in the Niger Delta, as well as people of the region.

He added that the operation was also extended to prevent crude oil theft, clearance of militants and sea pirates’ and non-kinetic conflicts resolution methods.

The commander appreciated the support of the Federal Government, Defence Headquarters, Service Chiefs, other security agencies and stakeholders, including the media for the successes recorded.

He stated that the Joint Task Force had resolved about 188 disputes involving multinational oil companies and host communities through civil-military relations and mediation efforts.

Meanwhile, the Commander of Operation Delta Safe has announced the arrest of seven suspected gunrunners.

He said that the suspects were arrested on waterways for allegedly concealing weapons in wooden boats covered with other cargoes.

Hassan said he had met with the leadership of Maritime Union, National Union of Road Transport Workers, Road Transport Employers Association and Timber Dealers Association urging them to be vigilant and report such illicit activities to the joint security task force.

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Chairman of the Bayelsa Maritime Union, Ogoniba Ipigansi, gave an assurance that the unions would cooperate with the security outfit.

Items recovered from the seven suspects include AK 47 rifles, bullets, cash, mobile phones and Automated.