By: Ayoade Esther Damola
The Police has arrested two suspects involved in the large-scale vandalisation of critical national infrastructure.
The police Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS), also recovered railway materials valued at over ₦400 million.
According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the suspects, Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22), were arrested on 9th April 2026 at about 6pm in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following credible intelligence.
Placid said the operation led to the interception of a trailer truck conveying approximately sixty (60) tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers, with the materials concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in a deliberate attempt to evade detection while being transported from Bauchi State to Ilorin, Kwara State.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the driver of the truck was contracted for the sum of ₦2.5m to transport the vandalised materials, while further findings indicate an organised supply chain linked to receivers of such stolen infrastructure.
During the investigation, Placid said that the operatives involved in the operation reportedly rejected an offer of ₦100m made in a bid to compromise the process and secure the release of the suspects and exhibits.
The trailer truck used in conveying the items has been recovered, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate, including the intended receivers, and to recover additional exhibits.
He added that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the operatives for their courage, discipline, and incorruptibility, noting that such acts exemplify the core values of the Force.
Placid stated that the Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s assets from vandalism.
