The Nigerian Army successfully dismantled 14 vessels involved in illegal oil theft in the Asa Community of Abia State on Friday. The operation, led by Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding 82 Division, took place at the Isimmiri Waterside in Ukwa West Local Government Area. The vessels, including eight sizable boats from Cotonou, were seized with crude oil and subsequently destroyed. Six individuals were apprehended during the operation and handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation.
Maj.-Gen. Dada emphasized that this operation is part of the Army’s ongoing mission under Operation Udoka, aimed at preventing economic sabotage and ensuring regional stability. He stated, “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.” He noted that the operation was based on secret intelligence, and the Army is committed to continuing such efforts to combat oil theft.
Brig.-Gen. Olusola Diya, Commander of 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, mentioned that the apprehended individuals had sunk several boats filled with oil before the military’s arrival. He assured that the Army is determined to retrieve more and will not tolerate any form of economic sabotage. Dada warned, “This is just the beginning. We will continue with this operation and make sure no stone is left unturned. The Nigerian Army will in no way tolerate any form of sabotage to the economy of this country.”