NAF Airstrikes Take Down Two Illegal Refining Sites Along Imo River, Rivers State
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
In its move to clamp down on crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, on 13 September 2024 launched a series of precision airstrikes.
These missions were part of the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe and targeted illegal refining operations along the Imo River in Rivers State, striking areas around Owaza, Uzaku, Obuzor, Osuaku, and Obiaku.
The first mission saw NAF aircraft deployed to provide Close Air Support for ground troops near the Imo River.
However, after a discrepancy in coordinates between the ground forces and aircrew, the operation shifted into Armed Reconnaissance, AR, mode.
During their sweep of Owaza and Uzaku, the aircrew spotted an active illegal refinery in Uzaku; wasting no time, they engaged the site, obliterating four IRS tanks and two canoes used by the criminals.
In a second daring mission, intended to support troops northwest of Umuahia, challenging weather conditions forced a strategic pivot.
The aircrew then adjusted course, conducting more AR along the Obuzor section of the Imo River. This swift action led to the destruction of 12 IRS tanks, with numerous jerrycans and equipment critical to the refining process, all spread across Owaza, Obuzor, Osuaku, and Obiaku.
A statement by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, says the NAF remains committed to its relentless air operations aimed at dismantling the networks of oil thieves and criminal elements in the Niger Delta, while supporting ground forces in their mission to safeguard national assets.
The statement urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies in reporting these saboteurs, as their efforts are crucial in curbing the illegal activities threatening the region’s economic stability.
