The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), through the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS), has successfully dismantled a railway vandalism syndicate involved in the large-scale theft of critical national infrastructure, recovering assets valued at over ₦400 million.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the operation led to the arrest of two suspects identified as Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22). They were apprehended on 9 April 2026 at about 6:00 p.m. in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following actionable intelligence.
According to the statement, operatives intercepted a trailer truck transporting approximately 60 tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers. The stolen materials were reportedly concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in an attempt to evade detection while being moved from Bauchi State to Ilorin, Kwara State.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the truck driver was allegedly contracted for ₦2.5 million to convey the stolen railway materials. Authorities also disclosed that the operation is linked to an organised network involved in the illegal supply and distribution of vandalised national infrastructure.
During the investigation, police operatives reportedly rejected a ₦100 million bribe offered in an attempt to compromise the process and secure the release of the suspects and seized exhibits.
The recovered trailer truck and exhibits have been secured, while further investigations are ongoing to apprehend additional members of the syndicate and recover more stolen assets.
The Inspector-General of Police commended the operatives for their professionalism, discipline, and integrity, describing their conduct as reflective of the core values of the Force.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure and ensuring that perpetrators of vandalism are brought to justice.
