Oil thieves embrace high-tech tactics, deploying CCTV and mortar launchers along pipeline routes, says NNPCL

Oil thieves are taking extraordinary measures to protect their illicit activities, using advanced technology like Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras to monitor security operations, according to a report by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) titled “War on Crude Oil Theft in October.”

In a statement, the NNPCL revealed that it had uncovered a bunkering site in Osuobodo, located between two ANTAN flow stations, south of the Oguta naval base in Imo State. The report explained that these criminals had significantly elevated their operations by installing CCTV cameras on trees to watch for security personnel.

Additionally, the NNPCL noted that the thieves had mounted mortar launchers and defense systems in various locations, indicating their willingness to use force against perceived threats.

The discovery was made possible through a military operation initiated based on information gathered during air surveillance conducted by Target Energy, Tantita Security Services, Operation Delta Safe, and the military in August.

The report emphasizes that the war against crude oil theft continues across the Niger Delta, with notable progress resulting from industry-wide security collaborations. In the past week, the report documented 149 incidents across the Niger Delta, portraying a warfare-like situation in some areas.

The report underlines the determination of these criminals to persist in their illegal trade, even in challenging conditions. They have set up generators to ensure power supply, storing crude oil in bags and drums through illegal connections.

The NNPCL also revealed that 49 illegal connections were discovered in locations such as Udu and Ogharefe in Delta State, Ohaji Egbema in Imo State, Brass in Bayelsa, and Rivers State between October 14 and 20. It appears that oil thieves are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods, as evidenced by the drilling of a tunnel under a tarred road in Rivers State for illegal connections, which was executed by an expert using a horizontal directional drilling machine.

The report further mentions 16 cases of pipeline vandalism, the repair of a vandalized pipeline in Ozuaku, Abia State, and the discovery of ten facilities used for storing stolen crude. Vehicle arrests were also made in several locations, and numerous wooden boats conveying stolen crude were apprehended.

The incidents occurred across different regions, with nine in deep blue water, 23 in the Western region, 67 in the Central region, and 50 in Nigeria’s Eastern Region. The NNPCL remains committed to eliminating crude oil theft despite these challenges.