The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully carried out air interdiction missions in Rivers State, destroying two illegal crude oil refining sites along the Imo River.

According to Group Capt Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, the air strikes conducted on September 13, 2024, aimed to curb crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.

“The missions targeted specific sites in Owaza, Uzaku, Obuzor, Osuaku, and Obiaku areas,” Group Capt Ali said. “In the first mission, NAF aircraft provided Close Air Support to ground troops near the Imo River. During an Armed Reconnaissance operation, the aircrew identified an active illegal refining site at Uzaku and engaged it, destroying four Illegal Refining Site (IRS) tanks and two canoes.”

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He further explained that a second mission, initially intended to support troops northwest of Umuahia, was diverted due to adverse weather conditions. “The crew conducted further Armed Reconnaissance around the Obuzor section of the Imo River, destroying 12 IRS tanks, jerrycans, and equipment used by criminals in Owaza, Obuzor, Osuaku, and Obiaku.”

Group Capt Ali reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to conducting air operations against oil thieves and other criminals in the Niger Delta, supporting ground forces across the region. He emphasized the importance of law-abiding citizens supporting security agencies’ efforts to deter economic saboteurs.

“The collective effort will go a long way in checkmating the activities of these criminals,” he said.

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