The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully disrupted several clusters of illegal crude oil refining sites in the creeks of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State, through a precise, intelligence-driven operation.

The airstrike, conducted by the Air Component of ongoing counter–oil theft missions, is part of sustained efforts to combat economic sabotage and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region.

NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed in a statement that the operation was executed on October 7.

He noted that the coordinated mission followed credible intelligence, which identified active illegal refining sites concealed within a densely forested area near Owaza.

“The location, completely isolated and without visible human activity, was confirmed through aerial surveillance. The aircrew engaged the targets with precision, neutralising the sites and halting ongoing illegal operations,” Ejodame stated.

He added that, in the first week of October, joint troops foiled oil theft valued at over ₦224 million across the South-South region and destroyed 21 crude oil cooking ovens, nine dugout pits, seven boats, 11 storage tanks, and six illegal refining sites.

Following the latest operation, Ejodame said NAF’s attention was drawn to claims by a group alleging that the airstrikes affected a local gin distillery in the Umuebele community, though no casualties were reported.

He assured that, in line with the Service’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP), NAF had commenced verification of the incident.

Reaffirming the Force’s adherence to international best practices, Ejodame emphasized NAF’s commitment to safeguarding civilian lives and property while maintaining transparency and accountability in its operations.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains steadfast in carrying out its constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and support other security agencies in curbing criminal activities. All our operations are intelligence-led, precise, and executed with utmost regard for civilian safety,” he said.