From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Army Headquarters, Abuja said soldiers on internal security operations in the South South part of the country has captured an armoury from where suspected militants engage in illegal oil bunkering.
The armoury located in a camp at Azuzuama Community in Ijaw South Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was uncovered and destroyed by troops of 5 Battalion operating under 16 Brigade, Nigerian Army, during a raid operation last Sunday.
The Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, who made the disclosure, said the soldiers recovered five AK 47 rifles, two rocket propelled grenade bombs, four rocket grenade bomb chargers, seven 7.62mm special ammunition, 14 AK 47 rifle magazines, one pumping machine, two 16-inch anchored verve, one mallet hammer, one pipe range spinner and one axe.
Nwachukwu, in a statement, said: “Troops of 5 Battalion operating under 16 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in a raid operation on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at Azuzuama Community in Ijaw South Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, have captured an armoury located in a camp, from where suspected unrepentant militants and illegal oil bunkerers carry out their nefarious activities.
“During the operation, the highly motivated troops subdued the suspected militants with superior firepower, compelling them to abandon their camp in disarray.
“The well-conducted raid operation led to the recovery of five AK 47 rifles, two rocket propelled grenade bombs, four rocket grenade bomb chargers, seven 7.62mm special ammunition, 14 AK 47 rifle magazines and one pumping machine.
“Other items recovered include two 16-inch anchored verves, one mallet hammer, one pipe range spinner and one axe.
“The illicit camp has been destroyed by the troops.
“The Nigerian Army wishes to express appreciation to members of the public and urges all to continue to provide timely and credible information in support of the ongoing effort by the army, to ensure that oil theft in the South-South region comes to zero level.”