The Nigerian Air Force has recorded another breakthrough in its fight against economic saboteurs, as its war jets razed illegal oil refining sites in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Imo states, destroying seven illegal oil bunkering boats.

Air Force spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, who revealed this on Sunday, said between June 18 to 22, 2024, the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 13 illegal refining sites and seven Cotonou boats, as well as dispersed 5 x J-5 buses attempting to siphon suspected crude oil products from surface tanks.

He said: “Some of the illegal sites were discovered near Imo River on June 18, 2024, with seven overhead tanks, which were subsequently destroyed while several suspected bunkerers were seen fleeing.

“Air strikes were also extended to Wilcourt in Rivers State on June 19, 2024, after an illegal site and canoe filled with illegally refined products, as well as some gunboats, were seen. Similarly, following intelligence of some illegal refining sites located about 6 km from Tunu in Bayelsa State, the aircrew proceeded to the location to identify and destroy the site, a task carried out with the utmost precision.

“Another significant strike undertaken by the air component was carried out on June 22, 2024, when the crew spotted 5 x J5 buses, probably reconfigured into mini tankers, at the bank of Imo River attempting to siphon illegally refined products.

“Amazed at this change of tactics by these economic saboteurs, the crew did not hesitate to immediately destroy the illegal refining sites feeding the buses. The J5 buses were later seen dispersed with some taking cover under trees to avoid detection.

“Air strikes against economic saboteurs and oil thieves have continued to record the expected outcomes, majorly due to improved intelligence, enhanced air-to-ground coordination, and most importantly, due to NAF’s improved agility and resilience. These operations will be sustained until the activities of these saboteurs are reduced to the barest minimum.”