The Nigerian Army on Monday said it is flushing militants and criminal elements out of the creeks of Niger Delta as its military exercise, Operation Crocodile Smile enters the third day.
The Army has also arrested several suspected oil thieves while destroying at least two illegal refineries operated by suspected oil bunkerers.
According to the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, troops of the 4 Brigade have made tremendous progress in the raid on suspected criminal hideouts in the creeks around Ajaosolo, Okogho, Opumani and Obodo areas.
The Army spokesperson said following intelligence reports, two illegal crude oil refineries were identified and destroyed by the troops traversing Ayakoromo and Esaba water ways in Burutu local government area of Delta State.
Troops also intercepted suspected illegal oil bunkerer with one “Cotonou Boat” laden with crude oil, 3 X 40 Horse power Yamaha Speedboats and 5 X 200 Liters of illegally refined diesel oil.