31/10/2024
In a decisive operation aimed at combating illegal crude oil exports, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) Federal Taskforce, led by Hajiah Aisha Ahmed, Head of Surveillance for IPMAN, and Mr. Eldre Chibueze Woko, Chairman of Waterways Oil and Gas Marketers Association Of Nigeria (WOGMAN), successfully intercepted a group of illegal exporters in Port Harcourt. The operation, which took place on Monday 28th October 2024, resulted in the arrest of three suspects who are now in custody pending further investigation and prosecution.
The collaborative effort between IPMAN and WOGMAN underscores the commitment of both organizations to uphold the integrity of Nigeria's oil sector and to combat the pervasive issue of oil theft that has plagued the region. Utilizing intelligence and surveillance techniques, the taskforce was able to identify and monitor the activities of the suspects, leading to their apprehension.
During the operation, the suspects were found in possession of significant quantities of illegally sourced crude oil, which they intended to export without the necessary permits and regulatory compliance. This interception not only highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in addressing illegal oil trade but also demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders.
Hajiah Aisha Ahmed expressed her satisfaction with the operation, stating, "This successful interception is a testament to our dedication to protecting Nigeria's oil resources. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that illegal activities are curtailed and that those responsible are brought to justice." Mr. Eldre Chibueze Woko echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding the nation's natural resources.
Following their arrest, the three suspects whose names are as follow Marshall Amende, Akwa Ibom State, Chinemere Onuwwa, Imo State and Ijeofor Sunday, Enugu State were handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution, marking a significant step in the fight against illegal crude oil exports. Both IPMAN and WOGMAN have pledged to maintain their collaborative efforts to dismantle illegal operations and promote lawful practices within the oil and gas sector.
This operation serves as a critical reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance and cooperation among industry players and law enforcement agencies to protect Nigeria's valuable oil resources and ensure compliance with legal regulations.
07/10/2024
YET ANOTHER MAJOR CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL CRUDE REFINING IN ETITI-UZO, ABIA STATE BY THE FEDERAL TASKFORCE OF IPMAN AND WOGMAN.
In a significant operation aimed at combating illegal crude oil refining, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Waterways Oil and Gas Marketers Association Of Nigeria (WOGMAN) taskforce successfully raided multiple illegal refining sites in Etiti-Uzo, Ukwa West LGA, in the early hours of Saturday, October 5, 2024. The operation was led by Hajiah Aisha Ahmed, Head of the Intelligence Unit of the Federal Taskforce IPMAN, alongside Mr. Eldra Chibueze Woko, Chairman of WOGMAN.
This was as a coordinated effort of a broader raiding to arrest and address the environmental and economic challenges posed by illegal refining activities that have plagued the region for years. Armed with intelligence gathered over weeks, the taskforce targeted several locations notorious for illegal operations.
During the operation, agents dismantled various illegal refining facilities, seizing heavy machinery and equipment used for the illicit activities. Large quantities of refined products were destroyed, including diesel and kerosene, were confiscated, preventing them from entering the market. Several suspects were apprehended on-site and are expected to face legal action as authorities ramp up efforts to hold individuals accountable for their involvement in these illegal operations.
Hajiah Aisha Ahmed expressed satisfaction with the operation's success, stating, "This operation is a crucial step in our fight against illegal crude refining. We are committed to ensuring the safety and environmental protection of our communities."
Mr. Eldra Chibueze Woko emphasized the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders, stating, "Today’s operation demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together. The illegal activities in this region must be stopped to protect our environment and promote lawful practices."
The crackdown is expected to have a lasting impact on the community, which has long suffered from the adverse effects of illegal refining, including pollution and safety hazards. Local residents have expressed support for the operation, hoping it will lead to a cleaner and safer environment.
As the taskforce continues its efforts, they are calling for community involvement and cooperation to ensure the long-term success of their initiatives. The operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against illegal activities in Nigeria's oil and gas sector and the commitment of organizations like IPMAN and WOGMAN to safeguard the interests of both the environment and local communities.
14/08/2024
IPMAN And WOGMAN Taskforce Strick Again: Major Interception Of Vehicle Loaded With Over One (1) Ton of Illegal Crude Oil Products In Ukwa West, AbiaState.
In a significant crackdown on illegal oil activities, the IPMAN Federal Taskforce, in collaboration with the WOGMAN Taskforce, successfully intercepted a vehicle loaded with illegal refined products, commonly known as bunkering, in the early hours of Tuesday, August 14, 2024, in Ukwa West, Abia State.
The operation, which took place under the cover of darkness, reflects the ongoing commitment of these taskforces to combat oil theft and protect Nigeria's economy. With an alarming report which came to the notice of the Taskforce and immediately the security operatives swiftly moved in to apprehend the vehicle, which was transporting large quantities of the illegal refined products.
With this victory again achieved by the IPMAN AND WOGMAN Taskforce Which was led by the Team of Hajiya Aisha Ahmed Head Of Intelligence Unit, Federal Taskforce IPMAN, And Eldra Chibueze Woko, Chairman WOGMAN, with all products discovered being set ablaze and well monitored as to make sure that none of the products discovered went missing from all they destroyed.
All suspects being apprehended by the Taskforce, was immediately handed over to the right authorities for further investigation to know the source of the illegal products and the individuals behind this operations. This interception marks yet another triumph in the relentless efforts to curb the illegal oil trade that has plagued the region for years, threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of honest citizens.
The IPMAN and WOGMAN Taskforces have vowed to continue their vigilance and further intensify operations across the state to ensure that such illegal activities are met with swift justice. As the fight against bunkering intensifies, residents has as well been encouraged to report any suspicious activities to help protect their communities and the state at large.
29/07/2024
In the early hours of Tuesday 16th Of July 2024, the team of IPMAN (Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria) and the team of WOGMAN ( Waterways Oil And Gas Marketers Association Of Nigeria) Federal Taskforce set out on a mission to combat the rampant issue of illegal crude refining, commonly known as "bunkering". The team which consisted of Hajiya Aisha Ahmed Head Of Intelligence Unit, Federal Taskforce IPMAN and Eldra Chibueze Woko Chairman WOGMAN, who were determined to uphold the laws against this mischievous act.
News had reached the IPMAN Taskforce that a community located in Ukwa East, in Abia State, was notorious for engaging in illegal crude refining activities. The community situated in the LGA had become a hub for bunkering, causing damage to the environment and posing a significant threat to the economy.
With the mission clear in mind, the IPMAN Taskforce embarked on a journey to Ukwa East, for an operation that lasted for about a week and with full readiness to confront the perpetrators and put an end to their illegal activities. Equipped with the necessary tools and information, they were prepared for any challenges that lay ahead.
As they arrived the specified community located in the LGA of Ukwa East in Abia State, they witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of illegal crude refining. The air was thick with the acrid smell of burnt oil, and the landscape was marred by the presence of oil spills and makeshift refining equipment. The community members, who had been lured by the promise of quick wealth, were engaging in this dangerous and illegal trade at the expense of their own safety and the environment.
The IPMAN Taskforce wasted no time in taking action and had swiftly identified the main bunkering sites and coordinated their efforts to surround them. With precision and determination, they began the process of destroying the illegal products and shutting down the refining operations.
As they carried out their operation, the IPMAN Taskforce of course encountered resistance from the suspects involved in the illegal activities. However, with her determination of upholding the law against the illegal refining of crude, this allowed them to handle the situation tactfully and with minimal harm. The suspects, realizing the futility of resistance, eventually surrendered, apprehended and handed over to security operatives.
With the illegal products destroyed and the suspects in custody, the IPMAN Taskforce had successfully accomplished their mission which has lasted for over a week. This swift operation had not only put a stop to the illegal crude refining in the community in Ukwa East of Abia State, but also sent a strong message to other communities engaging in similar activities.
In the aftermath of the operation, the IPMAN Taskforce continued to collaborate with the relevant authorities to rehabilitate Ukwa East in Abia State and educate its residents about the dangers of illegal crude refining. They implemented initiatives to support alternative livelihoods and promote sustainable practices, ensuring that the community could thrive without resorting to illegal activities.
With this high esteemed measures taken by the IPMAN Taskforce's on the interception in Ukwa East, this has tremendously left a symbol of hope and resilience to the environ. This also has served as a reminder that with dedication, teamwork, and the enforcement of laws, even the most entrenched illegal activities can be eradicated.