Nigerian Army troops apprehended about 21 people suspected to be oil thieves in an Abia State raid on Thursday.

The raid is part of an ongoing operation to crack down on illegal oil refineries in the state. 

In their raid on Obuaku, Imo River, and Ipu town, all within the Ukwa West Local Government Area of the state, several tools used for illegal oil operations were destroyed by the troops. This included around 10 boats, 5 vehicles, motorcycles, and different types of equipment.

Many oil storage tanks, crude oil, and illegally refined petroleum products were also destroyed by the troops during the raid personally chaired by Major Gen. Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division Enugu.

During a press conference held amidst the ongoing operation, Major General Dada announced stricter measures against oil theft, bunkering, and illegal refinery activities in the states within the 82 Division areas of operation.

He expressed his deep concern about the damage oil bunkers inflict on Nigeria's economy and vowed the army would relentlessly pursue them within the division.

 The General warned all those involved in the illegal oil bunkering to stop or face serious consequences. He emphasized that not only does it hurt the economy, but revenue from this crime also funds terrorism.

In a previous operation two weeks ago at Isimini and part of Obuaku, the military destroyed more than 14 boats, some carrying crude oil.