The Joint Task Force, codenamed “Operation Delta Safe (OPDS),” on Friday destroyed over 40 illegal refining sites in the Ukwa forest of the Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia.

The JTF commander, Rear Adm. John Okeke, who led the operation, said illegal refining of stolen crude oil was taking place at each site.

He recalled that he had warned oil thieves to desist from the illegal business or relocate to another area.

“Like I told you guys on the assumption of office on February 15, 2024, the joint operation area of Operation Delta Safe will never be a haven for illegality, especially those criminals that have chosen to steal our oil.

“But here we are today in Ukwa West of Abia State, bordering Oyigbo LGA of Rivers State; the criminals felt that we would never get to this place, but here we are.

“It is surprising to note that within here, we have over 17 divisions according to their naming; each of these divisions has a cooking area of over 40 sites,” he said.

Mr Okeke said the joint task force had been able to traverse the 40 sites.

“Of course, behind me, you will see one where construction is ongoing; it’s far larger than two trucks. You can imagine the quantity of products they would have stolen and refined here.

“So, I want to say today that we are not going to relent to those who do not want to abide by existing regulations regarding petroleum products,” he said.

The commander acknowledged that the JTF had been partnering with the civil populace, the State Security Service (SSS), the immigration and the Nigeria Customs Service (NIS) to curb oil theft.

(NAN)