The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited on Monday night attributed the recent fire incident at the Buguma oil wellhead in Rivers State to the actions of vandals.

According to the company, the fire at Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd, was caused by vandals attempting to tamper with the Christmas Tree and steal crude oil.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by its spokesman, Olufemi Soneye.

“This unfortunate act of sabotage, which also resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve, reflects a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads in the zone.

“Since March 2023, crude oil theft on this asset has been persistent, with criminals now resorting to extreme measures, including the use of dynamite to destroy installations and illegally access hydrocarbons,” the national oil company said in a statement.

Soneye said it remains committed to combating the fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with the criminal activities.

The company explained that while such activities pose a significant burden on the nation’s economy, it is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to the acts of vandalism.

Additionally, NNPC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities impacted by the destructive activities, stating that it will continue to provide necessary relief efforts to alleviate the effects on those affected.