Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces have foiled crude oil theft valued at over ₦98.7 million and arrested a wanted commander of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Gentle, in a string of coordinated operations across the country.
This was disclosed by Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, during the weekly press briefing on military operations across the country for the period ending October 16, 2025.
According to the Defence Headquarters, troops of the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe, uncovered and dismantled multiple illegal refining sites across Delta and Rivers States, preventing the theft of about 92,500 litres of crude oil, 1,575 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), 660 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene, and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit.
The operations also led to the destruction of 11 crude oil cooking ovens, 7 dugout pits, 14 storage tanks, 9 boats, and 7 illegal refining sites. Thirteen suspected oil thieves and accomplices were arrested, while weapons, ammunition, and vehicles were recovered.
Further raids conducted between October 9 and 12 in Delta’s Ethiope East, Ughelli South, Ndokwa, Okpe, and Warri local government areas, as well as Ahoada East and Toru LGAs in Rivers State, resulted in the arrest of nine more criminals and the recovery of additional weapons and vehicles.
The military noted that the operation reflects the Armed Forces’ resolve to protect national economic assets and eliminate organised oil theft networks undermining Nigeria’s revenue base.
Beyond the South-South theatre, troops across other regions also recorded significant successes in counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations. In the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained offensives against Boko Haram and ISWAP elements in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States.
“Between October 8 and 16, coordinated air and ground operations in Konduga, Magumeri, Gubio, Nganzai, Monguno, Kaga, and Mobbar LGAs neutralized dozens of terrorists.
“Sixteen informants and logistics suppliers were apprehended, while seven kidnapped victims were rescued. Recovered items included weapons, vehicles, petroleum products, and ₦5.14 million in cash”, it added.
In the North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA maintained its offensive in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Niger States.
According to the statement, troops killed several terrorists, arrested 14 others, and rescued six kidnapped victims.
Additionally, a gunrunner and two members of a drug cartel were arrested in Kaduna and Zamfara States, leading to the recovery of 1,307 live ammunition, large quantities of narcotics, motorcycles, mobile phones, and ₦227,000 cash.
It noted that in the North Central zone, Operation Enduring Peace troops foiled attacks and responded to distress calls in Plateau and Kaduna States.
“Operations in Riyom, Jos South, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Mangu, and Jema’a LGAs led to the elimination of several extremists and the arrest of 11 others. Weapons, vehicles, and motorcycles were recovered during the engagements.
“Four suspects arraigned for conspiracy and theft in Jos South were convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment each”, the statement added.
Similarly, Operation Whirl Stroke troops operating in Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, and the FCT reported multiple, killings of armed criminals, arresting 12 others, and rescuing 17 kidnapped victims. Arms, ammunition, livestock, and vehicles were also seized.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA troops arrested a wanted commander of the proscribed IPOB/ESN group known as “Gentle” alongside eight accomplices during raids in Imo and Ebonyi States.
According to the military, a female logistics supplier was also apprehended in Abia State with three children identified as the offspring of a wanted ESN leader, Maduabuchi Nwankwo (alias Emergency). Weapons, ammunition, and a vehicle were recovered.
The DHQ commended the gallantry and professionalism of Nigerian troops across all theatres of operation, noting that their collective efforts have continued to yield tangible results toward restoring peace and stability nationwide.
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It acknowledged the sacrifices of military personnel who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation and assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain unwavering in their constitutional mandate to defend the territorial integrity of the country.
“Our recent operational successes, whether in counterterrorism, anti-banditry, maritime security, or internal operations are not just battlefield victories, but demonstrations of our collective resolve to secure every inch of our nation,” DHQ said.
It appealed for sustained public cooperation and intelligence sharing to consolidate gains recorded so far, reaffirming that with continued unity and vigilance, Nigeria will move closer to achieving lasting peace and security.
