JTF Clamps Down On Oil Bunkerers, Illegal Refineries in Rivers State

Obviously troubled by the frequent reports on the activities of illegal oil bunkerers and illegal refineries in Rivers State, the Joint Task Force (JTF) operating in Niger Delta region has once again clamped down heavily on oil thieves whose bases are in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
A special squad of the JTF nicknamed” Operation PULO Shield” last week opened up on the oil blunderers and those specialized in operating illegal refineries in Elechi Beach area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Obviously troubled by the frequent reports on the activities of illegal oil bunkerers and illegal refineries in Rivers State, the Joint Task Force (JTF) operating in Niger Delta region has once again clamped down heavily on oil thieves whose bases are in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
A special squad of the JTF nicknamed” Operation PULO Shield” last week opened up on the oil blunderers and those specialized in operating illegal refineries in Elechi Beach area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The story came just as a vessel carrying crude oil caught fire in Abuloma wharf, also in Port Harcourt. The ill-fated vessel reportedly belongs to Nestoil.
 Shipping Position Daily correspondent in Port Harcourt who monitored the JTF operations in Port Harcourt reported that the soldiers stormed the Elechi Beach area which had a long standing notoriety in crude oil theft activities, the JTF subsequently arrested and whisked away 147 persons alleged to be the kingpins of the illicit trade.
Giving details of the operation, the Army Public Relations Officer, 2 Brigade Command, Capt. Sanni Samuel confirmed to journalists in Port Harcourt last week that about 147 persons were arrested.
He disclosed that when the officers swooped on the area, they discovered about 420 drums of substances suspected to be illegally refined petroleum products.
Capt Sanni said that in addition to this, different types of refining equipment were also discovered. He noted that in line with the JTF order of engagement, the 420 drums of the substances and their refining equipment were destroyed.
Meanwhile, there have been allegations that the JTF had set the Elechi Beach community on fire, allegedly leading to the razing down of seven   residential homes.
But in a swift reaction, the spokesperson for the JTF debunked the allegation. Capt. Sanni said that soldiers who were on special operation only burnt the 420 drums of illegally refined petroleum products and that it happened close to the waterside in the area.