The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-crude oil theft operations with the arrest of suspected pipeline vandals in Bayelsa State.
Confirming the report, Director of Naval Information Nigerian Navy, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho said the operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso on April 25, 2026, at about 0300 hours, following credible intelligence. Naval operatives conducted a coordinated raid at Egbama-Angalabiri in Ekeramo Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of a suspect identified as Godwin, alias “Idiot,” alleged to be the leader of a pipeline vandalism syndicate operating within the Clough Creek axis.
According to naval authorities, the arrest followed sustained intelligence and surveillance that linked the suspect to recent attacks on critical oil and gas infrastructure. He was apprehended at a nearby night market, where he was reportedly extorting illegal levies from traders.
A subsequent search of his residence triggered a confrontation with armed members of the syndicate. The situation, however, was swiftly contained through a coordinated tactical response, forcing the attackers to retreat.
During the operation, naval personnel recovered two handheld radios and other technical equipment believed to have been used in illicit activities. Further intelligence exploitation led to the arrest of another suspect, identified as Happiness, along with the recovery of a pump-action gun.
The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and prosecution.
In a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, the Navy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain and critical infrastructure.
The Service also warned criminal elements to desist from acts of economic sabotage, stressing that it would sustain aggressive operations in collaboration with other security agencies to curb illegal activities in the Niger Delta.
