Army arrests 14 oil thieves in Lagos

By Philip Nwosu

Troops of the 81 Division Nigerian Army have foiled an illegal petroleum bunkering operation and arrested 14 suspected oil thieves in the Lekki Free Zone area of Lagos State.

The intelligence-led operation took place in the early hours of April 16, at approximately 1:30 a.m., near the Dangote Refinery.

According to military sources, the suspects were apprehended while actively siphoning petroleum products from an illegal connection.

Investigations revealed that the suspects had constructed a long pipeline stretching from the high seas to a tanker concealed in a bush location. They reportedly used a generator-powered pumping machine to transfer petroleum products into the vehicle.

On sighting the approaching troops, the suspects attempted to flee but were swiftly overpowered and arrested by the soldiers.

Items recovered from the scene include a petroleum tanker truck loaded with siphoned products, a Lexus Highlander SUV with registration number APP 67 JQ Lagos, a Ford Hilux vehicle with registration number BY 117 FST Lagos; a pumping machine; a 40-horsepower boat engine; as well as large quantities of industrial hosepipes and other bunkering equipment.

The suspects and recovered items are currently in military custody for preliminary investigation and will be handed over to the appropriate prosecuting agencies in line with existing laws.

In a statement, the spokesperson of the division, Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, said the Nigerian Army remains committed to combating crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage, particularly in areas hosting critical national infrastructure.

He urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.