The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a breakthrough in its fight against infrastructure vandalism, arresting two suspects and recovering railway materials valued at over N400 million.
A statement issued on Monday by the Force spokesperson, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) apprehended the suspects, Chisom Goodnews, 32, and Ahmed Adamu, 22, on 9 April 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. in Akwanga, following what authorities described as credible intelligence.
According to police findings, the operation led to the interception of a trailer truck conveying about 60 tonnes of vandalized railway tracks and sleepers.
The materials had been carefully concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in an attempt to evade detection while being transported from Bauchi State to Ilorin.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the truck driver was hired for N2.5 million to move the illicit cargo. Further inquiries pointed to an organized supply chain involving receivers of stolen railway infrastructure across states.
In a dramatic twist, police sources disclosed that operatives involved in the operation rejected a N100 million bribe allegedly offered to secure the release of the suspects and the seized exhibits, underscoring what authorities described as a renewed commitment to integrity within the Force.
The trailer truck used in transporting the vandalized materials has since been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate, including intended buyers, and to recover additional stolen items.
Commending the operatives, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, praised their professionalism, courage, and incorruptibility, noting that their actions reflect the core values of the Force.
The Police reiterated its resolve to protect critical national assets and warned that acts of vandalism against public infrastructure would be met with decisive action.
