Operation Delta Safe Repels Attack In Cross River State, Grenade Launcher, 7.62mm NATO Belted GPMG Ammunition Found

PRESS RELEASES

In line with the mandate of Operation DELTA SAFE to protect oil and gas infrastructure and deter/prevent militancy, sea robbery, crude oil theft and other forms of criminality within the Niger Delta region. Troops of Sector 4 Operation DELTA SAFE deployed at Efut Isighi at about 1:00am on 30 September 2016 engaged the Bakassi Strike Force in gun battle that lasted for more than 2 hours. The militants who were in military camouflage uniforms carrying charms and amulets were spotted at Ekpere Effiong creek in Akpabuyo during a special operation by own troops.

The operation led to the killing of 7 members of Bakassi Strike force militants and recovering of several arms and ammunition. Items recovered include; Grenade Launcher, 7.62mm NATO belted GPMG ammunition and non disintegrating MG links. It should be noted that this latest reprisal attack on own troop position was sequel to ongoing operations and destruction of several militant camps, vehicles, power bike and other household items .

It could be recalled that on 24 of September 2016, this militant group (Bakassi Strike Force) attacked own troops location at Efut Isighi water front in Southern Cross River State.

In another development, Sector 1 of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled and arrested 2 suspects Messrs Thomas Okoro and Maselk Boyi who attempted to vandalize a Nigeria Petroleum Development Company OML 30, a 16 inch trans Farcodo pipeline running from Ughelli pumping station to Forcados Terminal at Agbowhiame Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. On interrogation, 8 others suspects as mentioned by the 2 arrested suspects are being trailed. Several items including; gas cylinder tubes with accessories, Hacksaw, pipe wrench and personal effects were recovered at the scene.

Operation DELTA SAFE wishes to assure the general public of its determination to degrade and flush out criminal elements in our communities. Members of the public are therefore requested to provide timely information to Operation DELTA SAFE detachments and other security agencies in order to apprehend these criminals from the hideouts.

Thomas Ogar OTUJI

Lieutenant Commander

Deputy Coordinator

Joint Media Campaign Centre