Army confirms arrest of journalist Soyombo at oil bunkering site

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo at an illegal oil bunkering site in the Niger Delta region.

The arrest, which sparked widespread concern and condemnation, occurred during an operation against oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

The confirmation follows public outcry over Soyombo’s detention, with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) reporting on X (formerly Twitter) that Soyombo had been in Army custody for three days.

The Army clarified that Soyombo was apprehended alongside other individuals suspected of involvement in these illegal activities.

In a statement on Friday, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, detailed the operation that led to Soyombo’s arrest.

He explained that intelligence indicated the presence of a notorious gang of oil thieves involved in pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections.

“Recently, intelligence revealed the presence of a notorious gang of oil thieves known for pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections. In a targeted operation, troops traced the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. During the operation, arrests were made, including that of Fisayo Soyombo, who was also detained at the scene,” Danjuma said.

The Army official noted that preliminary investigations are ongoing to ascertain the level of involvement of all suspects, including Soyombo.

“You will recall that the Division has intensified its anti-illegal oil bunkering operations, achieving significant operational successes. Therefore, Soyombo’s arrest is linked to the activities of these oil thieves in the region. It is important for media outlets to ensure the accuracy of the information they publish,” Danjuma added.

He reassured the public of the Army’s commitment to curbing criminal activities, particularly oil theft, in the region, with the aim of boosting the nation’s oil and gas production.