‘Operation Crocodile Smile 11 is to stem pipeline vandalism, bunkering, kidnapping,’ says 16 Brigade Nigerian Army
CHINEDU WOSU, YENAGOA
The 16 Brigade Nigerian Army has said that Operation Crocodile Smile 11 in the region is geared at stemming the tide of pipeline vandalism, illegal oil refineries/bunkering, kidnapping, cultism and other related crimes.
The Command said in line with the Nigerian Army Training Directive for the year 2017, 16 Brigade, Nigerian Army commenced operation CROCODILE SMILE II on October 7, 2017 and is expected to last till October 28, 2017.
The Command also said it would carry out medical outreaches and environmental sanitation exercises at Oloibiri oil well 1 in Ogbia, Bayelsa state as part of its community relations.
A statement by Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, and made available to newsmen said the Operation commenced with a confidence building patrol by a joint team of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility(AOR).
The patrol highlighted the operational capabilities of troops and other security agencies in a multi-faceted environment. This is aimed at stemming the tide of pipeline vandalism, illegal oil refineries/bunkering, kidnapping, cultism and other related crimes.
Captain Danjuma said Crocodile Smile 11 is an Operation designed to train troops on the efficacy of land and riverine operations thereby enhancing their combat readiness.
The choice of this site is not unconnected with its significance to the national economy of Nigeria. Oloibiri Oil Well 1 is a national monument that needs to be preserved hence, the Brigade is embarking on the sanitation exercise to preserve this historic site that has contributed in no small measure to the birth and overall growth of Nigeria’s commercial oil prospects.
He called on the general public not to panic on sighting movement of troops and heavy equipment.
