Troops from the Nigerian Army’s 65 Battalion have uncovered and dismantled a suspected illegal bunkering operation in the Orile General Area of Lagos State, leading to the arrest of six suspects.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 81 Division, the operation was carried out on July 16, 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of individuals allegedly involved in economic sabotage.
“Acting swiftly on the information, the troops carried out a targeted raid on the suspected site and apprehended six individuals believed to be involved in the illegal bunkering operation,” the statement said.
Security personnel recovered four drums—two containing suspected illegally refined petroleum products—as well as a white Ford bus and a tanker believed to have supported the operation.
The suspects and recovered exhibits have been transferred to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Major General Adebayo Babalola, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81 Division, praised the troops for their professionalism and timely action.
He said the successful operation demonstrates the Army’s commitment to protecting critical national assets while urging security personnel to sustain ongoing efforts and encouraging residents to continue sharing credible intelligence with law enforcement agencies.
