By Our Reporter
The Joint Task Force, JTF, codenamed Operation Delta Safe has discovered over 50 illegal crude oil refining sites in the Biseni area of Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
JTF Commander, John Okeke, who led the operation on Sunday stated that illegal refining activities was the order of the day in each of the sites. He explained that he had earlier cautioned oil thieves in the area to put a stop to their operations or relocate to other areas.
The army commander said that, although no arrests were made, he called on well meaning individuals in the area to come forward with useful information that could lead to the successful stoppage of illegal oil business as the task force requires the cooperation of the people.
Okeke assured that the JTF would not relent in chasing after the oil thieves as part of its clearance action, warning the JTF may come up with more drastic measures.
The JTF also uncovered a large open pit dug by the oil thieves, big enough to accommodate over 10 trucks of Alternative Gas Oil, AGO. The open pit, according to information, could be used to store stolen crude oil from where it is distributed to their refining sites.
Okeke in similar vein, informed that on May 9, 2024, the JTF team was at Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State bordering Rivers State at a contiguous forest shared by both states along the Imo River, in an effort to combat oil theft.
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