JTF Destroys 50 Illegal Refineries

The Joint Military Taskforce code- named “Operation Pulo Shield (OPS),” says it has destroyed over 50 illegal refineries during its latest raid in Bille and Krakrama communities in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The Tide learnt that the  taskforce also destroyed nine wooden barges carrying metals suspected to be griddle.

The spokesperson of the taskforce and Acting Public Relations Officer of the 2 Brigade Command of the Nigerian Army, Captain Sanni Samuel said in Port Harcourt that the taskforce had been using intelligence to track those involved in the oil theft.

“The Brigade acting on a tip-off on the 6th of July, 2012 raided the communities.  .

The items destroyed include 13 generating sets, 17 pumping machines, 53 cooking pots, 3 digital gadgets, 9 wooden barges, standing fans, 9 welding machines, air electrical pumping machines and 4 power plants,” Sanni noted.

He appealed to the public to assist security agents with information that will help to fight criminal activities.

Another member of he JTF anti-piracy team, CSP Francis Buwa warned those engaged in illegal business to stop the act or face the full wrath of the law.

He said , the anti-piracy team would not relent in the fight against crude oil thieves.

According to him, “ it is better for them to leave the trade because if they are not tired, we are not tired, they should find a meaningful business to do”.

Illegal bunkering, he declared, is an illegal act which the team is prepared to fight and drive those involved out of the business.

The taskforce, however, said that no arrest was made during the raid.

Shedie Okpara

Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Mr George Feyii (left), conferring with Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Tony Okocha, during the reception for Dolphins and Rivers Angels at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Monday. Photo: Chris Monyanaga