A major security operation has uncovered and dismantled a hidden illegal crude oil refining site located deep within a forest in Rivers State, raising fresh concerns over the scale of oil theft activities in the region.
Troops from the Joint Task Force South-South, operating under Operation Delta Safe, have dismantled an illegal crude oil refining site discovered deep within the Orashi National Forest in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The find was reported by counter-insurgency and security expert Zagazola Makama on Friday.
According to military sources, the discovery was made on June 3 during a coordinated anti-illegal bunkering operation involving troops from the 16 Brigade, Garrison, and 5 Battalion.
Equipment recovered from the site included two large drum ovens, two coolant systems, two receiver containers, two waste pits, and approximately 100 metres of galvanized pipeline all believed to have been used for illegal petroleum refining.
The recovered items were handled in line with Operation Delta Safe’s standard operational procedures.
Security authorities described the operation as part of sustained military efforts to curb crude oil theft, dismantle illegal refining camps, and protect critical oil infrastructure across the Niger Delta.
They emphasized that such activities cause significant economic losses and environmental harm to the region.
Officials added that surveillance and clearance operations in the area will continue as troops work to identify and shut down other suspected illegal refining sites.