Thu Sep 12 00:30:39 UTC 2024: ## NNPC Cracks Down on Oil Theft, Destroying 134 Illegal Refineries in a Week
**Port Harcourt, Nigeria** – The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has announced a major crackdown on oil theft, destroying 134 illegal refineries and uncovering 63 illegal pipeline connections in the past week.
The company revealed that a joint team of security agents apprehended a large wooden boat illicitly loading stolen crude oil from a barge within the OML 18 operating area. The boat was caught receiving crude from the barge, which was subsequently towed away along with a tugboat. Five speedboats used to tow the wooden boat were also detained, and the particulars of the tugboats and barge were seized for further investigation.
Similar operations were carried out in Rivers State, where two barges involved in illegal bunkering were seized and their crews arrested. Wooden boats transporting stolen crude were also confiscated in Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Abia States.
The 63 illegal pipeline connections were discovered throughout the Niger Delta. Repairs were swiftly made on pipelines in Bayelsa and Abia States, with the illegal connections being removed.
The NNPC stated that the crackdown extends beyond pipeline vandalism, targeting illegal refineries in the swamps and waterways. These refineries, described as “shadowy operations,” pollute the environment and drain the Nigerian economy. Authorities uncovered secret storage locations in Rivers State and seized crude destined for the black market in Bayelsa. A vehicle filled with stolen crude in jerry cans was also intercepted, with the driver being apprehended.
The NNPC detailed that the 302 incidents investigated involved 48 incidents in the deep blue water, 81 in the central region, 134 in the eastern region, and 39 in the western region. 25 suspects were arrested and handed over to government security agencies for further investigation.
The company stressed its commitment to eradicating oil theft, emphasizing that the war against this menace will continue until it is completely defeated.
Despite the efforts of security agencies, oil theft continues to rise, deterring investors from the Niger Delta region, according to NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari.
First Piper 