Troops dismantle gun-running syndicates, arrest 35 suspects in Niger Delta 

By ESEGHA MIRACLE, BAUCHI

Troops from the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army made significant progress in a strategic planned intelligence-led operation, successfully dismantling notorious gunrunning syndicates that were known for trafficking Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) to criminals throughout the Niger Delta Region (NDR).

Congress gathered that the successful operation resulted in the interception of two English pistols, four locally fabricated pistols, and a double-barrelled gun. The criminals were reportedly conducting arms deals using the Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Bayelsa States corridor to discreetly move illicit SALWs within the NDR.

Those involved in the gunrunning activities, identified as Innocent Emiyemokumo Deidei (AKA Sele Bobo), Godknows Alabor Avor, and Godwin Osik, were apprehended at different times through intelligence-driven operations. The suspects, along with the recovered arms, were handed over to the relevant agency for prosecution.

In addition, while continuing their efforts against oil theft across the NDR, troops achieved notable successes between 25 August and 7 September 2025. Their efforts led to the destruction of six illegal refining sites, the arrest of 35 criminals, and the confiscation of over 14,000 litres of stolen products. Among those arrested were three gunrunners, oil thieves, and individuals involved in various other crimes.

In Rivers State, near the Kilometre 45 area in Degema LGA, two illegal refining sites were deactivated, with 4,500 litres and 3,000 litres of stolen crude and illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) recovered, respectively. Additionally, around Rumukpe in Emohua LGA, troops discovered multiple dugout pits containing crude oil. A suspect was apprehended while attempting to package over 1,800 litres of stolen crude in sacks. Furthermore, at Abacheke Community, close to the boundary between Rivers and Imo States, troops recovered 35 sacks filled with over 1,750 litres of illegally refined AGO. Various items were recovered, including one motorcycle and an Infinix mobile phone. A suspected oil thief was apprehended. In Omoku in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, a white Mitsubishi Hilux carrying 12 sacks of stolen AGO was intercepted along the Kiri Omoku–Elele road. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into the nearby bush upon sighting troops.

Similarly, in Delta State, at Ifie Community in Warri South LGA, an illegal refining site was discovered, equipped with two cooking pots. The site also contained 35 sacks filled with over 1,050 litres of stolen AGO. Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, at Ekparakwa Community along the Ikot Abasi–Oruk Anam road, a red mini bus with the registration number ABK 398XA was intercepted. The vehicle was loaded with 750 litres of stolen AGO contained in 25 nylon bags. Additionally, troops raided an illegal refining site at Ukpom Community in Abak LGA. During the operation, 21 jerricans filled with stolen AGO, along with several empty jerricans and storage drums, were destroyed. Troops maintained vigilance in Bayelsa State, effectively controlling waterways and hinterlands to deny criminals freedom of action.