Army dismantles illegal bunkering site in Lagos, arrests six suspects

Troops of the 65 Battalion of the Nigerian Army at the illegal bunkering site. (Photograph: Nigerian Army)
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 65 Battalion have dismantled a suspected illegal oil bunkering site in the Orile General Area of Lagos State, arresting six suspected oil bunkerers during an intelligence-led operation.

The operation was conducted under the command of the Battalion’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel S. Adeojo, following credible intelligence on illegal bunkering activities in the area.

According to the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Musa Yahaya, the raid resulted in the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of four trucks, one pumping machine, and assorted pipes and drums allegedly used for the illegal activities.

The suspects and recovered items have been handed over to the Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and necessary action.

Assorted pipes used for illegal bunkering operations. (Photograph: Nigerian Army)

In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, the Army said, “Acting on credible intelligence, the troops raided the site and arrested six suspected oil bunkerers. The operation also led to the recovery of four trucks, one pumping machine, and assorted pipes and drums allegedly used for illegal bunkering activities.”

Commending the troops for the successful operation, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, urged personnel to sustain the fight against economic sabotage and other criminal activities within the division’s area of responsibility.

Six suspects arrested at the site

The Army said the operation is part of its ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering, safeguard critical national assets and strengthen security across Lagos State.