Nigerian Air Force aircraft conduct airstrikes against illegal oil refining clusters in Rivers State, Nigeria, disrupting illicit activities.
By Emmanuel Obisue
The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has announced the successful disruption of several illegal crude oil refining sites in the creeks of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State, during a precise, intelligence-driven air operation carried out on October 7, 2025.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, noting that the operation was part of sustained efforts to curb economic sabotage and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region.
According to the statement, “During the mission, NAF aircraft identified active illegal refining sites concealed within a densely forested area near Owaza. The location, completely isolated and without visible human activity, was confirmed through credible intelligence and aerial surveillance. The aircrew engaged the targets with precision, neutralising the sites and halting ongoing illegal operations”.
Ejodame added that the attention of the Air Force had been drawn to claims by a group alleging that the airstrikes affected a local gin distillery in Umuebele, though no casualties were reported. He said that, in line with NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, CHMR-AP, necessary steps had been taken to verify the situation.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices, assuring that its operations would continue to prioritize civilian safety while combating criminal activities and defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
