Abuja: The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo Command, has arrested two suspected pipeline vandals in Esan West Local Government Area, aiming to combat economic sabotage and safeguard critical national assets. This arrest is part of the ongoing efforts by the command to tackle the menace of pipeline vandalism in the region.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, CSC Efosa Ogbebor, the Public Relations Officer of the command, made this announcement during a news briefing held in Benin. He detailed that the suspects were apprehended in a joint intelligence-led operation conducted by the NSCDC, in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo Governor on Pipeline Surveillance and Security.
Ogbebor revealed that the operation took place at a cattle market in Idumabor, Ekpoma, where the suspects had been under surveillance for some time. Their arrest was the result of effective intelligence gathering and strategic planning by the authorities involved.
He stated, ‘Acting on credible intelligence, the Edo Command, in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Pipeline Surveillance and Security, carried out a successful operation that resulted in the arrest of two suspected pipeline persons, who specialise in vandalising NNPC oil pipelines.’
Preliminary interrogation of the suspects has yielded valuable information, with confessions regarding their involvement in the criminal activities. Efforts are currently underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate and dismantle the network behind these crimes.
During the briefing, it was disclosed that one of the suspects admitted to purchasing a pipeline component for N4 million. Both suspects will face prosecution under the law upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Mr. Saidi Akintayo, the State Commandant, has reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting national assets and infrastructure throughout Edo. He emphasized that the command will continue to combat all forms of economic sabotage in the state.
Ogbebor issued a stern warning to individuals involved in pipeline vandalism and related crimes to cease their activities or leave the state. He affirmed, ‘There will be no hiding place for criminals determined to undermine government’s efforts at safeguarding the nation’s critical infrastructure. The NSCDC remains resolute in ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are apprehended and brought to justice.’