The Nigeria Police Force have arrested seven suspected pipeline vandals and recovered 285 pieces of vandalised Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) pipelines during an operation in Adamawa State.

The operation was carried out by operatives of the Inspector-General of Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering in collaboration with the IGP X-Squad, following credible intelligence on the activities of a pipeline vandalism syndicate.

Police said the breakthrough began on 9 July when operatives intercepted a J5 bus loaded with suspected vandalised NNPCL pipelines along the Yola–Numan Road.

The vehicle was being driven by Paul Joshua and was accompanied by Paul Ishiyaku.

Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of seven suspects identified as Haruna Usman, 28; Haruna Muhammed Sule, 30; Dabus Peter, 38; Ahmad Adamu, 19; Sadik Ibrahim, 31; Paul Joshua, 49; and Paul Ishiyaku, 48.

A further search led to the recovery of 285 pieces of vandalised pipelines, six gas cylinders, diggers, shovels, a blue J5 bus with registration number KRD 767 XC and other equipment believed to have been used in the illegal operation.

“The suspects are currently in police custody, while investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the criminal enterprise and identify other individuals connected to the vandalism network,” the police said.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure, the Force said it would continue to intensify efforts against economic sabotage.

“The Nigeria Police Force… reiterates its commitment to the protection of critical national infrastructure and the fight against economic sabotage,” the statement added.

The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts to combat crime and safeguard national assets across the country.