The Nigerian Navy has arrested two suspected members of a pipeline vandalism syndicate. This incident highlights ongoing Imo pipeline vandalism. They also recovered sections of allegedly stolen crude oil pipelines in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State.
According to Vanguard, the Navy’s Director of Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said personnel of Naval Base Oguta carried out the intelligence-led operation. This operation took place along the Osu–Obodo Road corridor, a known hotspot for Imo pipeline vandalism.
Folorunsho said naval personnel intercepted a Mercedes truck carrying 10 sections of crude oil pipeline. The sections were allegedly removed from the Addax Petroleum pipeline network, which has recently suffered from Imo pipeline vandalism.
“The intelligence-led operation was conducted by personnel of Naval Base Oguta, leading to the interception of a Mercedes truck conveying 10 sections of crude oil pipeline suspected to have been illegally removed from the Addax Petroleum pipeline network along the Osu–Obodo Road corridor,” he said.
The Navy arrested one suspect while he allegedly escorted the truck carrying the pipeline sections.
Operatives later arrested a second person during follow-up operations after investigators linked him to the suspected vandalism network.
“One of the suspects was apprehended while escorting the consignment, while another suspected member of the syndicate was subsequently arrested during follow-on operations,” Folorunsho said.
He added that naval personnel had intensified efforts to find other members of the alleged network who remain at large.
According to the Navy, the operation prevented the suspects from moving the pipeline materials. It also stopped them from causing further damage to critical oil infrastructure.
“The timely interception denied the criminal syndicate the opportunity to evacuate the vandalised pipeline materials. Therefore, it prevented further damage to critical national infrastructure and preserved evidence crucial to ongoing investigations,” Folorunsho said.
The Navy said it would continue using intelligence-led operations to disrupt groups involved in pipeline vandalism. Notably, Imo pipeline vandalism remains a serious threat to the region. Moreover, these efforts will target crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage.
Folorunsho added that the service would work with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to protect national assets. In addition, they will support Nigeria’s economic stability.
The suspects remain in custody while investigations continue. The suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
