Nigeria: “Nigerian Air Force Decimates Illegal Oil Refining Sites in Rivers State, Maintains Vigilance Amidst Festive Season”
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
The Nigerian Air Force, through its Air Component of Operation Delta Safe, conducted a series of strikes on December 23, 2023, resulting in the destruction of six illicit oil refining sites situated in Opu Arugbana, within the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the spokesperson for the force, revealed that these targeted air operations were part of the ongoing initiatives to eliminate the presence of oil thieves and pipeline vandals in the Niger Delta Region.
The unauthorized refining sites were identified clustered within an approximately 80-meter radius, located about 6 nautical miles south of Opu Arugbana. Following confirmation of their active status, the necessary authorization was obtained to dismantle and obliterate these sites, thereby dissuading criminals from persisting in their illegal activities.
Despite the festive season, the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to its aerial operations against criminal elements in the Niger Delta and other parts of the country. Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, personally spent Christmas Day with troops in the Northeast and is currently in Katsina engaging with the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji. He commended the dedicated efforts of the Air Component Commanders across all theaters of operation, urging them to persevere until criminal activities are significantly minimized.
In addition to the strategic military actions, the article also mentions the release of timetables for bye-elections by the APC and PDP, as well as the anxiety in an Ondo community due to disagreements over a self-appointed monarch. The report concludes with a disclaimer emphasizing that the expressed comments do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Vanguard newspapers or its employees.
This comprehensive coverage underscores the continuous vigilance and commitment of the Nigerian Air Force in safeguarding the region from illicit activities, even during festive periods, and provides a nuanced view of the broader political landscape with the inclusion of information on political events and community concerns.
