In an intensified effort to curb pipeline vandalism and infrastructure theft, the Edo State Task Force on Recovery of Government Property has arrested six suspects over the alleged vandalism of the Warri–Kaduna crude oil pipeline at Ekperi, where nearly 30 kilometres of underground pipeline were reportedly excavated and stolen.
Speaking at a press briefing in Benin, Task Force Chairman Eugene Okolosie, said the suspects allegedly collaborated with local community members and deployed heavy machinery, including excavators, to unearth the crude oil transport line connecting Warri to the Kaduna refinery.
“Some of the stolen pipelines have been recovered, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the operation and identify more accomplices,” Okolosie said.
The pipeline arrests form part of a broader crackdown on the destruction and illegal sale of government assets:
Five suspects were arrested in Uhuoghun, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, for vandalising a government-owned tractor and other heavy equipment, allegedly intended for sale as scrap.
Another five individuals were detained in Okpella for the theft of high-tension electricity infrastructure, which authorities warn has become a growing threat to state power supply and public safety.
Okolosie also raised alarm over illegal land sales in Edo, disclosing that 480 hectares of public land had been unlawfully sold by community members but have since been recovered by the Task Force.
Pipeline vandalism and infrastructure theft have long plagued Nigeria, disrupting oil transport, power supply, and state revenue, while leaving costly environmental damage in their wake.
Edo authorities say the coordinated arrests signal a renewed commitment to protect public assets and deter criminal networks behind these activities.
