The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has intensified its efforts against crude oil theft, uncovering 83 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region within the past week. The revelation was made through the official X handle of NNPCL on Tuesday. Additionally, the company reported the discovery of 15 illegal pipeline connections during the same period.
In a video shared on its X handle, NNPCL disclosed a total of 211 incidents of oil theft and vandalism reported between January 6 and 12, 2023. The company emphasized its commitment to combatting crude oil theft, showcasing its actions against illegal activities in the oil sector.
The NNPCL documentary shared on X highlighted an inspection of an illegal crude oil vessel, MT Kali, loaded with thousands of metric tonnes of crude oil. The vessel was intercepted by Tantita Security Services in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps while loading directly from an offshore platform in Bayelsa State. All 23 crew members onboard the illegal vessel have been apprehended.
The Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, were reported to have visited Oporoza, Warri, Delta State, to inspect the illegal vessel and express their commitment to curbing crude oil theft.
General Musa asserted, “We are committed to stopping all acts of criminality in Nigerian waters. The country is bleeding, and we need all funds to develop as a nation. It is by stopping these acts of criminality that we will be able to achieve that dream.”
In a separate post on X, NNPCL disclosed the discovery of 83 illegal refineries and 15 illegal pipeline connections in the Niger Delta region in the past week. The company’s ongoing efforts underscore the determination to eliminate illegal oil activities, contributing to the country’s economic and environmental well-being.
This follows NNPCL’s previous revelation of 52 illegal refineries discovered a week ago, accompanied by the destruction of these illicit operations and the removal of 32 illegal pipeline connections. The national oil company continues to take swift action against oil theft and vandalism, working in collaboration with security agencies and private firms to ensure the security and integrity of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure.