Navy busts oil pipeline syndicate, arrests suspects in Bayelsa
Operatives of the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Army have arrested an alleged notorious pipeline vandal and an accomplice. It was learned that a naval officer sustained a gunshot wound
Operatives of the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Army have arrested an alleged notorious pipeline vandal and an accomplice.
It was learned that a naval officer sustained a gunshot wound to the right leg during the operation.
The suspect and his accomplice, identified as Happiness, are linked to attacks on the pipeline and oil infrastructure within Clough Creek and its environs.
A signed statement by Commander Rasheed Iginla, Command Information Headquarters, Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, said the arrest was carried out on 25 April 2026 during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation at the suspect's residence in Egbama-Angalabiri, Ekeremor LGA, Bayelsa State.
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According to the statement, the operation was carried out in response to a recent surge in incidents of vandalism and sabotage in the area.
Items recovered during the operation include a pump-action rifle and two walkie-talkies.
The statement added that the suspects and exhibits have been handed over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Bayelsa State Command, for further investigation.
The Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral SD Ibrahim, commended the Commanding Officer, Forward Operating Base FORMOSO, Capt SK Haruna, for the operation and urged them to sustain the tempo against vandalism.
