Suspected illegal crude oil bunkering barons launched an attack on a team from Tantita Security Services in Ilaje community, Ondo State, following a recent warning against oil theft. The team, in collaboration with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), retaliated and thwarted the attack early Monday morning in Awoye community.
Acting on intelligence, Tantita operatives discovered a large storage facility used by the oil thieves to store adulterated crude oil for local sales. The team, in conjunction with NSCDC, launched a raid on the facility, resulting in the destruction of the entire storage facility along the Alowe seashore in Ilaje Local Government Area. The operation led to the discovery and destruction of 700 kegs filled with crude oil, equivalent to 21,000 liters, and two wooden boats also laden with crude oil.
Despite facing resistance from some local residents during the operation, Tantita Security Services successfully repelled the attackers through a full exchange of ammunition, with commendation given to the Nigerian Civil Defence for their support.
In a statement, Tantita’s Executive Director of Operations and Technical Services, Captain Warredi Enisuoh, highlighted the success of the operation, emphasizing the commitment to combat illegal oil bunkering activities. Chief Idowu Asonja, the Tantita Commandant in Ondo State, warned against involvement in economic sabotage, underlining government efforts to develop the region and provide employment opportunities for the youth.
The raid and subsequent destruction of the illegal crude oil storage facility represent a significant blow to the activities of oil thieves in the area, demonstrating the resolve of security agencies to curb such criminal operations.
