Battle against crude oil theft bringing positive outcomes

Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, has reported positive outcomes from the Army’s campaign against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. He stated that the ongoing operations have led to notable results, with increased effectiveness evident in recent efforts.

The update was shared in a statement from the Acting Deputy Director of the 6 Division, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, on Monday night in Port Harcourt. The GOC made these comments during a courtesy visit by Major General Jamil Sarham (retired), CEO of New Guard Security and Consultancy Services (NGSCS), at the Division’s headquarters in Port Harcourt Barracks.

General Abdussalam highlighted that the government has set a target to boost daily oil production to 2 million barrels, a goal the Division is working diligently to achieve. He outlined various operations, such as Operation CHANNEL SWEEP and Operation LINES SWEEP, which have successfully handled millions of litres of stolen crude and dismantled illegal connections. Ongoing operations like Operation RIVER SHIELD and Operation CRUDE HUNT are also yielding significant results, including the destruction of illegal refineries and confiscation of illicit products.

The GOC praised the cooperation with private security companies (PSCs) and local communities, which has greatly enhanced the effectiveness of their operations. He emphasized the need to address any issues within these collaborations to maintain progress.

Major General Sarham, during his visit, requested continued support from the Division, noting that PSCs play a crucial role as force multipliers in operations. He commended the GOC for the recent increase in oil production and the development seen in Port Harcourt Barracks. He encouraged the GOC to maintain and strengthen efforts against illegal oil activities.

The visit also featured representatives from PINL, the Project Management Office, and Tantita Security Services, Nigeria Limited, and included the presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.