Nigerian Army Arrests 14 in Lagos Bunkering Operation

On April 16, 2026, the Nigerian Army's 81 Division successfully foiled an illegal petroleum bunkering operation in the Lekki Free Zone area of Lagos, arresting 14 suspects. The operation was initiated following intelligence reports regarding oil theft activities near the Dangote Refinery.

Troops apprehended the suspects who were attempting to siphon petroleum products from a pipeline connected to a high-sea tanker hidden in a bush area. Upon sighting the troops, the suspects attempted to flee but were overpowered.

The army recovered several items, including a tanker loaded with siphoned petroleum products, a Ford Hilux vehicle registered as 117 FST Lagos, a pump machine, a 40hp boat engine, industrial hosepipes, and other bunkering equipment. The recovered items are currently in the custody of the 81 Division.

Preliminary investigations are underway, and the army has committed to handing over the suspects to the appropriate authorities for prosecution, reiterating its dedication to combating crude oil theft and economic sabotage.