Troops neutralise armed vandals, recover AK-47 rifles in Niger Delta

Troops from the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have neutralised two armed vandals and recovered two AK-47 rifles, eight magazines and 69 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition in the Niger Delta Region.

The operation, which was carried out following credible intelligence on a criminal attempt to vandalize the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) pipeline traversing Upatabo Community in Ahoada West Local Council, resulted in a fierce gun duel between the troops and the vandals.
 
According to Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations,  Lieutenant Colonel  Jonah Danjuma,  the troops swiftly mobilised to the scene upon receiving the intelligence report.
 
“Upon arrival, the criminal elements engaged our troops in a firefight. Our troops responded decisively, neutralizing two of the vandals and recovering two AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, and 69 rounds of ammunition,” Danjuma stated. He added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

 Also, troops  recorded significant operational successes across the region, including the destruction of 13 active illegal refining sites, seven boats, and eight illegal connection points.
 
Furthermore, 18 suspected oil thieves were arrested, and about 60,000 litres of stolen products confiscated. Danjuma noted that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to protect the country’s oil infrastructure and combat economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region.