The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has identified pipeline vandals as the culprits behind the fire outbreak at its Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL). The incident was triggered by an attempt to compromise the Christmas Tree installation and steal crude oil.
This act of sabotage severely damaged the well’s back pressure valve, marking a troubling trend of repeated attacks on wellheads in the area. Since March 2023, persistent crude oil theft has plagued this asset, with criminals resorting to extreme methods, including the use of dynamite to access hydrocarbons illegally.
NNPC Ltd expressed its commitment to combating these criminal activities, emphasizing their economic implications and the financial burden they impose on the nation. The company is collaborating with security agencies to address the issue and curb further acts of vandalism.
Furthermore, NNPC Ltd reiterated its support for affected communities and assured the public of ongoing relief efforts to mitigate the impact of these destructive activities. The company continues to prioritize measures to protect its installations and safeguard the country’s resources.
