Azuzuama Community, Bayelsa State – In a successful raid operation on Sunday, June 25, 2023, troops from 5 Battalion, operating under the 16 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, have dealt a significant blow to suspected unrepentant militants and illegal oil bunkers. The operation led to the capture of an armoury located within their camp, marking a major breakthrough in the fight against oil theft.
According to Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, the highly motivated troops exhibited exceptional courage as they engaged the suspected militants, forcing them to flee their camp in disarray. Superior firepower played a vital role in subduing the militants and ensuring the success of the operation.
The raid yielded an impressive cache of weapons and equipment, with the recovery of 5 AK-47 rifles, 2 Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) bombs, 4 RPG bomb chargers, and seven 7.62mm special ammunition. Additionally, 14 AK-47 rifle magazines, one pumping machine, two 16-inch anchored verve, one mallet hammer, one pipe range spinner, and one axe were also seized. In a decisive move, the troops destroyed the illicit camp, rendering it inoperable.
Expressing gratitude to the public, the Nigerian Army commended the citizens for their support and called for their continued cooperation. Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu urged individuals to provide timely and credible information, which will greatly aid the ongoing efforts to eradicate oil theft in the South-South region.
The successful operation serves as a testament to the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating oil theft and ensuring the security of the nation’s valuable resources. With the capture of the militants’ armoury, significant damage has been dealt to their criminal operations, paving the way for a safer and more prosperous future in the region.
