Army busts oil theft attempt at Dangote Refinery, nabs 15, seizes vehicles, equipment
Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled an attempted crude oil theft at the Dangote Refinery, arresting 15 suspects during a swift early-morning operation in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State.
According to an operational report obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the suspects were apprehended on Friday by troops of Headquarters 9 Brigade in collaboration with the 65 Battalion, following actionable intelligence.
The suspects were caught in the act—allegedly attempting to illegally siphon crude oil from a discharge point linked to a vessel supplying the refinery.
At the time of the incident, the vessel was offloading crude for the production of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) when the group reportedly tried to connect hoses to divert the supply.
The operation led to the arrest of all 15 suspects and the recovery of a cache of equipment believed to have been used for the illicit operation.
Items seized include a Mack tanker truck, a Lexus RX 350 SUV, a Ford Ranger pick-up truck, a pumping machine, a 40HP Yamaha speedboat engine, and multiple hose pipes.
Military authorities confirmed that the suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in the custody of the 65 Battalion, with investigations ongoing.
The successful interception highlights intensified efforts by the Nigerian Army to safeguard critical national assets and clamp down on crude oil theft—an enduring threat to Nigeria’s economy.
