The Nigerian Army in Abia State discovered and destroyed about 14 illegal oil bunkering vessels that were stealing crude oil.
Among them were eight large Cotonou boats found at Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West local government area. These vessels were immediately set ablaze.
Major General Hassan Dada, who led the operation as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 82 Division, mentioned that six suspects connected to the illegal bunkering were apprehended.
Accompanied by the Commander, 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Brig.-Gen. Olusola Diya, Dada stated that the suspects had been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and prosecution. He added that the Nigerian Army was stationed at the creek to prevent economic sabotage in the region.
“We have been here since Thursday, conducting operations against saboteurs that are trying to take out the crude oil that is the mainstay of our economy,” the GOC stated.