Troops thwart N10bn oil theft, kill 2,245 terrorists in Q2 2024

The Nigerian Armed Forces has said it prevented oil theft valued at over N10 billion during the second quarter of 2024.

Through a series of rigorous operations and strategic interventions, the high command said troops have recovered substantial quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products.

The recovered items include 9,225,149 litres of stolen crude oil, 2,874,916 litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), 29,900 litres of DPK (Dual Purpose Kerosene), and 31,380 litres of PMS (Premium Motor Spirit), among other items.

Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, while briefing newsmen on Thursday in Abuja noted that these efforts highlighted the military’s proactive measures in safeguarding the nation’s vital resources and dismantling criminal networks involved in illicit activities.

“This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economic interests and ensuring stability”, Buba stated.

During the second quarter of this year, troops also neutralised 2,245 terrorists, arrested 3,682 suspected terrorists and other criminal elements, and rescued 1,993 kidnapped hostages.

Additionally, the troops recovered a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition, including 2,783 weapons and 64,547 rounds of ammunition.

The breakdown of recovered items included 1,169 AK-47 rifles, 36,273 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 14,764 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 713 assorted arms, and 9,850 assorted rounds of ammunition.

The ongoing vigilance and operational efficiency demonstrate the resolve of the military to uphold national security and combat illicit activities that threaten the country’s prosperity.

General Buba also stressed the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorist threats and ensuring the safety of citizens.

Buba noted that the military’s primary objective is to dismantle terrorist organisations and neutralise their military capabilities.

“Our resolve is clear. We are actively engaged in various forms of combat and maintain operational flexibility, allowing us to respond to different events and project forces as needed strategically”, Buba stated.

Despite the ongoing presence of terrorists in operational areas, Buba noted significant progress in degrading their capabilities.

He acknowledged that the fight against terrorism is a prolonged effort, likening it to a marathon rather than a sprint.

“It is evident that terrorists prioritise their military capabilities. As our forces advance and clear areas where these terrorists hide, we continue to recover weapons, explosives, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), highlighting their focus on maintaining their combat power”, Buba said.

Buba assured that synchronised ground and air operations are continuously conducted to eliminate terrorist threats.

He emphasised that troop operations are regularly assessed and adjusted to minimise civilian casualties while adhering to international laws governing armed conflict.

“Our operations are progressing according to plan. We will do everything within the bounds of the law to ensure our nation’s safety. The military remains steadfast, maintaining the fighting spirit and stamina on the front lines’, Buba affirmed.

Buba reiterated the military’s dedication to protecting citizens, stating, “Our pride lies in risking our lives to save the lives of our citizens. This is our mission to secure our country.”