Troops of 2 Brigade of the Nigerian Army participating in “Operation CROCODILE SMILE”, an operation aimed at curtailing the activities of militants in the Niger Delta region, have destroyed 74 illegal refineries in the last two days and dismantled camps used by suspected kidnappers and militants in Rivers and Bayelsa states.
According to a statement on Friday army spokesperson, Sani Usman, a Colonel, special equipment, including swamp buggies, were deployed to aid the operation.
“On Wednesday, 7th September 2016 troops of Sub-Sector Bravo in response to a tip off on the presence of suspected kidnappers at Akupoku community, carried out a raid at the location. But no arrest was made as the kidnappers have fled the area.
“However, the team also raided Ke community, at the verge of the Atlantic ocean where they discovered and destroyed an illegal refinery,” Usman said, adding that three large cooking pots, ostensibly used to refine the crude, and 20 tanks filled with refined Automated Gas Oil, AGO, were destroyed.
The army said its men also found and destroyed another illegal refinery at Bile, including 12 large refining cooking pots.
“The troops exercising along Abonnema axis were also informed of the presence of suspected kidnappers at Abakrikri Fishing Pot, they swung into action and carried out cordon and search operation, however, no contact or arrest was made.
“The troops of 130 Battalion also raided suspected kidnappers camp at Awukiri. Although no contact was made, the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle empty magazine, 6 face masks, 1 machete and several empty shells of expended ammunitions,” the statement added.
Operation Crocodile Smile, the army said, is not only meant to clear militants and miscreants from the creeks of the Niger Delta, it also has humanitarian component.
According to Usman: “The Medical unit of 2 Brigade has been dispensing free medical service at Twon Brass in Bayelsa State. The troops would continue their field training exercise, while the humanitarian assistance will continue with provision of educational materials and free medical assistance to the host communities this Friday.”