NAF Airstrikes Disrupt Illegal Oil Refining Clusters In Rivers State
In a renewed push to combat oil theft and environmental pollution in the Niger Delta, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out precision airstrikes that destroyed several illegal crude oil refining clusters in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, the operation took place on 7 October 2025 and was part of ongoing counter-oil theft missions aimed at curbing economic sabotage in the region.
The airstrikes, conducted after credible intelligence and aerial surveillance, targeted active refining sites concealed deep within the creeks near Owaza.
The statement confirmed that the locations were isolated and showed no visible human presence before being neutralised by NAF aircraft.
Following the mission, NAF acknowledged reports from a local group claiming the operation may have affected a gin distillery in Umuebele. While no casualties were recorded, the Air Force said it had activated its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan to verify the claim.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to international best practices, emphasising that its operations remain intelligence-driven, precise, and focused on protecting civilian lives and national assets.
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