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From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), said its aircraft under Operation Delta Safe, has destroyed 12 illegal refining sites and two reservoirs located in Abia and Rivers states.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, said In Umueze in Abia State, armed reconnaissance undertaken by the aircraft revealed several illegal refining sites situated in many fenced households.
Gabkwet, in a statement, said,”This information was subsequently relayed to ground troops for further exploitation and necessary action. Heading towards Owaza, three illegal refining sites were observed hidden under thick vegetations, 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.
“The sighting of illegal refining sites in fenced living environments is indicative of the sophistry of the illegal oil refining trade that would require other means beyond air strikes to checkmate.
“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. Be that as may, 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”.
