Troops of the Nigerian Army 81 Division have foiled a major illegal petroleum bunkering operation in the Lekki Free Zone area of Lagos, arresting 14 suspected oil thieves and recovering a tanker, vehicles, and other equipment.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of April 16, 2026, followed credible intelligence on the activities of the suspects near the Dangote Refinery.
According to military sources, troops launched a swift and coordinated raid at about 1:30 a.m., catching the suspects in the act of siphoning petroleum products. The suspects had reportedly constructed an illegal pipeline stretching from the high sea to a tanker hidden within a bush, using a generator-powered pumping machine to transfer the products.
On sighting the troops, the suspects attempted to escape but were quickly overpowered and apprehended.
Recovered items include a tanker truck loaded with siphoned petroleum products, a Lexus Highlander SUV, a Ford Hilux vehicle, a pumping machine, a 40-horsepower boat engine, and a large quantity of industrial hosepipes used for the illicit operation.
Military authorities say the suspects are currently in custody, while the recovered items have been secured as investigations continue.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to combating crude oil theft and protecting critical national assets, particularly in strategic locations such as the Lekki Free Zone.
