The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) says it has uncovered another 165 illegal refineries in various locations across the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria..
The NNPC disclosed in its documentary that about 400 incidents of oil theft and vandalism were reported by both the government and private security agencies between June 15 and 21.
It explained that 69 illegal connections were discovered and disconnected in Bayelsa and Rivers States and that no fewer than eight cases of oil spills owing to vandalism or illegal connections were reported across the region.
In addition, an illegal loading point was discovered in Warri, Delta State, while across several swamps in Okrika in Rivers State, 69 illegal refineries were reportedly uncovered and dismantled.
It added that one ongoing construction of an ‘oven’ for illegal refining of crude oil was brought to a halt and that similar refining sites were uncovered in different locations in Abia and Bayelsa States.
The NNPC also disclosed that 19 illegal storage sites filled with stolen crude and illegally refined products were uncovered in Delta, Imo, Rivers, Abia and Bayelsa. States, while 11 vehicles were seized in Delta, Akwa-Ibom and Bayelsa States and 39 boats conveying stolen crude were confiscated in Rivers, Delta and Bayelsa States.
According to the NNPCL, eight persons were arrested in connection with the incidents.
GIK/APA
Nigeria: NNPC uncovers another 165 illegal refineries – Report
