Crackdown Success: NNPC Confiscates 63 Illegal Refineries.
In a decisive move against oil theft, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has confiscated 63 illegal refineries in just one week, from August 3 to 9. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to combat rampant oil theft that has plagued Nigeria’s oil industry.
Key Points:
- Seizures and Discoveries: NNPC’s operations led to the seizure of 63 illegal refineries across Bayelsa, Rivers, Abia, Imo, and Delta States. Additionally, 19 illegal pipeline connections were recovered, and a vandalized oil wellhead was discovered in Bayelsa State. Stolen crude was also found in oil reservoirs in Rivers State.
- Incident Reporting: During this period, a total of 177 incidents were reported. Tantita Security Services recorded four cases, Shell Petroleum Development Company reported eleven, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited had twenty-six, and Maton Engineering Company reported twenty. The NNPC Command and Control Centre reported fifty-one incidents, with government security agencies accounting for sixty-four.
- Vehicle and Equipment Seizures: The operation also led to the arrest of seventeen individuals in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom States. Additionally, fifteen wooden boats transporting stolen crude were confiscated in Rivers and Bayelsa States.
- Impact on Oil Industry: Oil theft significantly impacts Nigeria’s oil sector, with previous estimates showing losses of up to 700,000 barrels per day in 2022. This theft contributes to divestment by international oil companies and hampers the country’s economic growth.
- Government and Security Efforts: The NNPC’s crackdown reflects ongoing efforts to curb the massive losses attributed to oil theft. The government and security agencies are under pressure to address this issue, as highlighted by recent comments from industry leaders like Tony Elumelu, who emphasized the need for accountability and transparency regarding oil theft.
This aggressive approach by the NNPC is crucial in addressing the severe economic and security implications of oil theft in Nigeria.
-
Share News with us via WhatsApp:08163658925 or Email: naijaeyes1@gmail.com
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
