Airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircrafts destroyed 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs in Abia and Rivers states.
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The airstrikes were conducted on Friday July 26, according to NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet in a statement on Sunday July 28.
Gabkwet said at Umueze in Abia State, armed reconnaissance undertaken by the aircraft revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households.
The NAF spokesperson said the information from the armed reconnaissance was subsequently relayed to ground troops for further exploitation and action.
He said: “Heading towards Owaza, three illegal refining sites were observed hidden under thick vegetation, which were subsequently destroyed.
“Thereafter, the crew followed the river line down to Komkom and Okoloma in Rivers State, where nine illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were discovered and destroyed. In total, 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs were destroyed.”
He said the sighting of illegal refining sites in fenced living environments by oil thieves was “indicative of the sophistry of the illegal oil refining trade that would require other means beyond air strikes to checkmate.”
He said: “Those engaged in these acts, especially in fenced living environments, are again reminded of their danger to human lives and health as well as the environment.
“However, armed reconnaissance missions as well as destruction of illegal refining sites will continue unabated until crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage are reduced to the barest minimum.”
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