Soldiers Raid Illegal Oil Bunkering Site In Delta

Soldier attached to 19 Battalion, Koko Delta state has raided a notorious illegal oil bubkering site near Abide community, along Benin River, Warri North Council Area of the State.

The raid following a tip off of activities of bunkerers was tailored to clear the area known as “major crossing point” for bunkerers who have had field day in the area for quite some time now.

It was learnt that during the raid, boats,  hose, one jetta car used in conveying the stolen products and other paraphernalia of office of the oil bunkerers were set ablaze by the soldiers.

Residents of the area who confirmed the raid on Tuesday to journalists said the operations of the 19 Battalion troop from Koko had yielded so much since they took over the general area, commence serious destruction of boats and vehicles hitherto used in conveying illegal products.

A community leader at the Benin river who simply gave his name Opus Meshack, however commended the efforts of the soldiers, affirming that the soldiers actions has yielded immeasurable result.

“We the people of Abide community truly appreciate the efforts of the soldiers in checkmating bunkering activities in the riverine. Our water is now safe and clean and as you can see, bunkering camps within the area are being burnt by the soldiers”.

“The people of the locality therefore commended the soldiers for the sustain efforts”, he added.

An officer who didn’t want his name mentioned, said that they decided to storm the area in order to reduce the rate and effects of oil theft which has greatly affected the economy assuring that the operation which has stopped the movement of bunkerers both in the land and water would be sustained.