The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), said its operatives have foiled pipeline vandal and recovered several items allegedly used by the suspects at Obazagbon Community in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Ogbebor Efosa said on July 16, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m., operatives of the Command’s Anti-Vandal Unit, working in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Pipeline Security and Surveillance, were on a routine patrol along the NNPC pipeline corridor at Obazagbon when they encountered a group of suspected pipeline vandals excavating and vandalising the pipeline.”
According to the statement, the suspected criminals, upon sighting the security operatives, opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape.
However, the superior fire power of personnel of the corps overwhelmed them, forcing the criminals to abandon the operation and flee into the surrounding bush.
According to the statement, items recovered include five long gas cylinders, two motorcycles, two shovels and two digger heads.
According to the statement, the recovery was another breakthrough as the command sustained efforts to protect Nigeria’s critical national assets and infrastructure.
The statement warned criminal elements and their sponsors to stay away from government facilities, particularly oil and gas installations, stressing that the command remains resolute in its mandate to safeguard critical infrastructure.
“Our operatives are already on the trail of the fleeing suspects. They cannot evade justice forever. We are committed to apprehending everyone connected with this criminal act, including their sponsors and collaborators, and ensuring they face the full weight of the law,” he added.
It appealed to residents of Edo State to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information that would help prevent acts of vandalism and other criminal activities.
The statement reaffirmed the commitment of the NSCDC Edo State Command to working closely with sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.
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