Rear Adm. Aminu Hassan made the disclosure while briefing newsmen in Igbogene in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, on the body’s in the about-to-expire year.
The commander said 699 suspects were arrested, 90 assorted illegal weapons and large caliber ammunition seized; while 1,883 illegal oil refining sites were dismantled.
Hassan also revealed that in addition to the over 1,800 illegal oil refining sites dismantled, 37 militants and sea pirates camps were also destroyed across 12 states in the region within the period under review.
In all, the commander said the operation helped the country save over N53 billion worth of crude oil, diesel, kerosene and premium motor spirit (petrol).
While revealing that seven suspects were also arrested in possession of illegal arms, the commander said the feat was recorded following several operations conducted to safeguard oil and gas operations and installations in the Niger Delta, as well as the good people of the region.
He added that the operation was also extended to prevent crude oil theft, clearance of militants and sea pirates’ and non kinetic conflicts resolution methods.
The commander appreciated the support of the Federal Government, Defence Headquarters, Service Chiefs, other security agencies and stakeholders, including the media for the successes recorded.
He stated that the Joint Task Force had resolved about 188 disputes involving multinational oil companies and host communities through civil-military relations and mediation efforts.
Meanwhile, the Commander of Operation Delta Safe has announced the arrest of seven suspected gunrunners.
He said that the suspects were arrested on waterways for allegedly concealing weapons in wooden boats covered with other cargoes.
Hassan said he had met with the leadership of Maritime Union, National Union of Road Transport Workers, Road Transport Employers Association and Timber Dealers Association urging them to be vigilant and report such illicit activities to the joint security task force.
Chairman of the Bayelsa Maritime Union, Mr Ogoniba Ipigansi, in an interview with newsmen gave an assurance that the unions would cooperate with the security outfit.
NAN reports that items recovered from the seven suspects include AK 47 rifles, bullets, cash, mobile phones and Automated Teller Machine cards.
