An illegal refinery in Dariama in Rivers state was destroyed by a Nigerian Airforce jet from the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe on Friday as part of the onslaught against crude oil thieves and their illegal refineries in the Niger Delta.

According to a statement made by Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, the Air Component's intense firepower was used in the criminal activity.

He said, “The Air strike, which was intelligence-driven, took out the illegal oil refining site situated at Dariama Village, a locality about 20 Kilometers South west of Abonnema and 50 Kilometers South west of Portharcourt, Rivers State.

“It is important to note that this illegal site was observed to be active with tanks and reservoirs filled with suspected illegal refined products.

“The air strike yet again reaffirms the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria towards eradicating the activities of oil thieves and illegal oil bunkerers.”