Suspect Abandons SUV, N2.3m Illegal Diesel In A/Ibom

Troops of the 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 4 of Operation DELTA SAFE, have recovered about 1,200 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, after a suspected oil bunkerer abandoned his vehicle and fled in Akwa Ibom State.

The recovery followed an anti-oil bunkering operation carried out at about 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026, along the Onna–Etinan Road.

The Army said the operation was based on credible surveillance of a suspected oil bunkerer who was driving an Infiniti Jeep with registration number EPE 937 EY.

According to the military, the suspect escaped after sighting the troops. He abandoned the vehicle following a brief pursuit and fled into the surrounding bush.

A search of the abandoned SUV led to the discovery of 40 nylon bags containing approximately 1,200 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel.

The recovered petroleum products are estimated to be worth N2,256,000.

The Army said the vehicle and the recovered products were secured and handled in line with the mandate of Operation DELTA SAFE. It added that no casualties or other incidents were recorded during the operation.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations against illegal oil bunkering and other economic crimes in the Niger Delta.