Troops discover illegal crude oil refining materials in Rivers forest
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have discovered equipment and 3,120 litres of stolen crude oil in the Okarki Forest in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The discovery was made on Aug. 25, 2026, between 10:15 a.m. and 6 p.m. during an anti-illegal bunkering operation conducted by the troops.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops discovered eight drum ovens, two coolants, three drum reservoirs, four iron buckets and four metal pipes estimated to be about 200 metres long.
The troops also recovered 78 sacks containing stolen crude oil, estimated at 3,120 litres.
The items were discovered concealed within the forest and are believed to have been used for illegal oil processing activities.
The recovered materials were handled in line with the mandate and operational procedures of Operation Delta Safe.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to disrupt illegal oil bunkering, crude oil theft and other activities undermining Nigeria’s oil-producing communities and economy.
