The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have dealt a significant blow to economic saboteurs and separatist insurgents in a week of high-intensity operations across the South-South and South-East.
​Between March 13 and 19, 2026, troops under Operations DELTA SAFE and UDO KA crippled several illegal oil bunkering networks and dismantled Improvised Explosive Device (IED) manufacturing cells, according to a briefing by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations.
​Economic War: Crackdown on Oil Theft
​In the Niger Delta, the military intensified its campaign to protect national assets and bolster oil production. Key successes during the period include:
​Refinery Destruction: In Rivers State, troops identified and dismantled a major illegal refining site in Tai LGA, confiscating 1,500 litres of illegally refined products.
​Intercepted Logistics: In Delta State, a coordinated raid at Edjekuta Community, Ughelli North, led to the interception of a vehicle conveying 660 litres of illegal AGO (diesel). In a separate engagement at Abonnema, Rivers State, a high-speed boat carrying 25 sacks (1,500 litres) of stolen fuel was seized.
​Anti-Drug & Smuggling: Operations in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, resulted in the arrest of 20 suspected drug peddlers, while joint efforts in Cross River State led to the interception of ammunition couriers and the recovery of explosive-making materials.
​Restoring Stability in the South-East
​Operation UDO KA continued its aggressive clearance of hideouts linked to terrorist elements and separatist militias.
​IED Neutralization: During a fierce encounter at Orsu-Ihiteukwa in Imo State, troops repelled an attack on their position, subsequently discovering and neutralizing six IEDs planted along transit routes.
​Specialist Takedown: On March 14, a follow-up operation in the same axis led to the neutralization of two IED specialists who were attempting to plant explosives. Troops recovered IED-making components, ballistic vests, and communication gear.
​Community Safety: In Delta State’s Aniocha North LGA, a joint security team raided the Idumu Ugo–Isele Uku Forest, neutralizing one kidnapper and successfully rescuing three abducted victims.
Commitment to National Security
​Major General Onoja reaffirmed that the AFN is operating in strict accordance with International Humanitarian Laws and the Geneva Conventions. He noted that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, remains focused on consolidating these gains to ensure economic stability and the safety of all Nigerians.
​”The sacrifices of our troops reflect our unwavering resolve to protect the nation’s commonwealth and its people,” Onoja stated.
