Lagos: Security Forces Detain Six Alleged Fuel Smugglers in Orile Operation

The Nigerian Army's 65 Battalion has successfully taken down a suspected illegal bunkering site in Lagos State's Orile area, resulting in the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of various items linked to the illicit activity.

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This operation was carried out by troops on 16 July 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected economic saboteurs in the area, according to Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations.

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Acting on the information, the troops conducted a targeted raid on the suspected site, apprehending six individuals believed to be involved in the illegal bunkering operation, and recovering items including four drums, two of which contained suspected illegally refined petroleum products.

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Troops also recovered a white Ford bus and a tanker suspected to have been used in support of the illicit activity, which were handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Lagos State Command.

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The Commanding Officer, 65 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel S Adeojo, handed over the suspects and recovered items to the NSCDC for further investigation and necessary legal action.

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The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, commended the troops for their swift response, professionalism, and successful execution of the operation.

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Major General Babalola noted that the achievement reflects the Division's unwavering commitment to safeguarding critical national assets and denying criminal elements the freedom to operate within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility.

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The GOC further urged troops to sustain the momentum in ongoing operations and encouraged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.