NAF Airstrikes Destroy 13 Illegal Refining Sites, 7 Boats, in Rivers, Bayelsa

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe has destroyed 13 illegal refining sites, 7 Cotonou boats, and 5 buses suspected of siphoning crude oil products.

The strikes which was conducted between June 18-22, targeted various locations in Rivers and Bayelsa States, including Imo River and Wilcourt.

A statement on Sunday by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information, said the air component’s improved intelligence, coordination, and agility have led to the successful destruction of these illegal facilities.

He said the operations aim to disrupt the activities of economic saboteurs and oil thieves, and will continue until their activities are significantly reduced.

Similarly, following Intelligence of some illegal refining sites located about 6km from Tunu in Bayelsa State, where the aircrew proceeded to the location to identify and destroy the site, a task carried out with the utmost precision

Another significant strike undertaken by the air component according to Gabkwet was carried out on 22 June 2024, when the crew spotted 5 x J5 buses, probably reconfigured into mini tankers, at the bank of Imo River attempting to siphon illegally refined products.

“Amazed at this change of tactics by these economic saboteurs, the crew did not hesitate to immediately destroy the illegal refining sites feeding the buses.

“The J5 buses were later seen dispersed with some taking cover under trees to avoid detection,” he said.

The NAF spokesman noted that the air strikes against economic saboteurs and oil thieves