The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has announced the discovery and confiscation of 63 illegal refineries in the past week, as part of its intensified efforts to combat oil theft. A recent documentary highlighted the progress made in the fight against oil theft.
According to the NNPC, 177 incidents were recorded between August 3 and 9, including:
– 19 illegal pipeline connections recovered
– 63 illegal refineries discovered and confiscated in Bayelsa, Rivers, Abia, Imo, and Delta States
– 17 vehicular arrests made in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom States
– 15 wooden boats conveying stolen crude confiscated in Rivers and Bayelsa States
– 16 suspects arrested in connection with the incidents
Regional Breakdown
The incidents occurred in various regions, including:
– Deep blue water: 51 incidents
– Western region: 21 incidents
– Central region: 29 incidents
– Eastern region: 76 incidents
Impact of Oil Theft
Crude oil theft remains a significant challenge in the upstream sector, hindering Nigeria’s ability to increase production. Billionaire businessman Tony Elumelu recently emphasized the need for the government and security agents to identify and address the perpetrators of oil theft, which contributes to the divestment of international oil companies in Nigeria.
Elumelu shared his personal experience with oil theft, stating that 18% of crude oil is still stolen from his field, despite efforts to combat the menace. He urged the government to take action and identify those responsible for the theft.
