The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has intensified its efforts against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, revealing that within the past week, 83 illegal refineries and 15 illegal pipeline connections were uncovered in the region. The information was shared on the NNPCL’s official communication platform. Additionally, a total of 211 incidents of oil theft and vandalism were reported between January 6 and 12, 2023.
In a documentary shared on the platform, the NNPCL disclosed that inspections were carried out on an illegal crude oil vessel, MT Kali, loaded with thousands of metric tonnes of crude oil. The vessel, intercepted by Tantita Security Services in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, was caught loading directly from an offshore platform in Bayelsa State. The Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, inspected the vessel in Oporoza, Warri, Delta State, and all 23 crew members were arrested.
General Musa emphasized the military’s commitment to working with the national oil firm and other security agencies to combat crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. He stated that stopping such criminal activities is essential for the nation’s development.
In a previous disclosure, the NNPCL reported uncovering 52 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region within a week, along with 32 illegal pipeline connections that were subsequently destroyed. The company also highlighted incidents of oil theft recorded from various sources.
The ongoing efforts by the NNPCL and its partners signify a determined stance against the illegal activities that have plagued the oil-rich region for years. The discovery and dismantling of illegal refineries and pipeline connections are part of broader initiatives to curb crude oil theft and protect the nation’s resources.
