The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, operating under the Central Naval Command (CNC), has transferred two individuals arrested for alleged pipeline vandalism and unlawful possession of firearms to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Bayelsa State.
Rear Adm. Suleiman Ibrahim, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Central Naval Command, disclosed that operatives from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO Brass, working alongside troops of the Nigerian Army’s 5 Battalion, Elele, Rivers State, achieved the breakthrough during a joint operation.
The development was made known in a statement issued on Sunday by Commander Rasheed Iginla, Command Information Officer of the Central Naval Command in Yenagoa.
According to the statement obtained by The News Chronicle, one of the suspects is believed to be the leader of a notorious group involved in attacks on oil installations around Clough Creek and nearby communities.
The FOC explained that the arrest followed a coordinated, intelligence-led raid carried out on April 25 at the suspect’s residence in Egbama-Angalabiri, Ekeramo Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
He noted that the operation was prompted by the recent spike in pipeline vandalism and related acts of sabotage within the region.
“He was arrested alongside a suspected accomplice. Items recovered during the operation include, a pump action rifle and two walkie talkies.
“Subsequently, on April 26, the suspects and exhibits were handed over to the NSCDC Bayelsa command for further investigation and necessary prosecution.
“This operation once again, highlights the resolve of the base to rid its area of operations of criminal elements to enhance the maritime security as well as ensure a safe operating environment for oil companies and maritime stakeholders,” he said.
Ibrahim praised the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Capt. Sunday Haruna, for the successful mission and urged sustained aggressive action to support the nation’s crude oil production targets.
He further revealed that one naval personnel sustained a gunshot injury to the right leg during the operation but has since been treated and is in stable condition.
