*JTF’s Operation Udoka sanctions 316 soldiers, 371 civilians for extortion in South East
*Efforts of the JTF manifests in the disciplinary action against the erring soldiers
*Also sanctioned for extortion and other offences are 371 civilians with 67 detained
*Maj-Gen Hassan Dada, GOC 82 Div/Commander of Operation Udoka disclosed these
By Our Correspondent with Agency Report
Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation Udoka which has been operating in the South East geopolitical zone of the country intensified efforts to enforce discipline and ensure adherence to its rules of engagement resulting in the sanction of its personnel.
As a result of its efforts over the past six months, 316 soldiers and 371 civilians have been sanctioned for extortion and other offenses with 67 soldiers and 2 civilians detained.
Major General Hassan Dada who is the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division and Commander of Operation Udoka made this disclosure during a briefing in Enugu, the zone’s capital.
Gen Dada also stated that 46 soldiers were demoted for misconduct, and emphasized that the task force is committed to maintaining integrity and regaining confidence and public trust.
His words: “Through Operation Checkmate, we have identified and disciplined erring personnel involved in activities that tarnish the image of the Joint Task Force, including extorting commuters at checkpoints.”
JTF has conducted extensive operations to combat illegal oil bunkering and refining activities across Abia, Imo, and Anambra states. These operations have led to significant achievements, including:
78 anti-illegal bunkering operations, arrest of over 60 suspected oil thieves, destruction of 217 illegal refinery sites, seizure of 993,000 liters of stolen crude oil and 237,000 liters of illegally refined diesel (AGO), recovery of over 40 vehicles and 33 motorcycles used for illegal operations and destruction of over 57,000 kg of metal scraps used for building illegal refineries.
Other recovered items include 117 pumping machines, 98 wheelbarrows, and approximately 21 kilometers of siphoning hoses.
The high point of these operations was “Operation Dragon Spit,” a four-week campaign conducted across the division from late June to early July, which significantly disrupted illegal bunkering activities.
Illegal bunkering and refinery sites were mainly identified in: Ukwa West LGA and Owaza (Abia State), Egbema in Ohaji/Egbema LGA and Oguta LGA (Imo State), Ugwo and Ikpele in Ogbaru LGA (Anambra State).
Maj. Gen. Dada acknowledged operational challenges but reiterated the task force’s commitment to ensuring the region’s safety. “Our efforts will continue to frustrate the activities of oil thieves, bunkerers, and their collaborators,” he stated.
He added that the JTF is also addressing secessionist activities, terrorism, and criminal gangs within its area of responsibility. Plans to enhance troop capacity through training and the provision of relevant equipment are ongoing.
The JTF has emphasized its commitment to working with other security agencies and engaging with community leaders to foster a safer environment in the South East.
Concluding, Gen Dada said: “We will intensify our operations to ensure the region is secure and that citizens can carry out their daily activities without fear.”
