The Benue command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended 11 individuals suspected of vandalizing NNPC pipelines at the Apir Depot in Makurdi.
Commandant Yakubu Ibrahim of the NSCDC showcased the damage inflicted on the pipeline (Yola line) by the vandals to journalists on Friday, 17 May, 2024.
He elaborated that the suspects were captured on May 14, thanks to credible intelligence and the deployment of a team from the anti-vandal and rapid response squad units.
Upon arriving at the scene, the vandals, seemingly alerted to the team’s approach, fled into hiding.
“When our team arrived at the scene that day, the vandals, who likely got wind of our approach, went into hiding.”
However, various tools belonging to the perpetrators were recovered, including two shovels, a small hoe, a red Jincheng motorcycle, and 16 pieces of 10-foot NNPC pipelines.
Mr. Ibrahim expressed concern over the prolonged destruction of national assets, noting the lack of reports from residents of the Apir community.
He suggested that community members might be involved in the criminal activities, emphasizing that their silence implicates them as accomplices.
“We have farmers, residents, youths, and community leaders in this area, and this act has continued for months.”
The commandant emphasized their commitment to apprehending the masterminds behind the vandalism, stressing the detrimental impact on the nation’s economy.
“We will not rest until we arrest the masterminds behind this crime because they are not just content with stealing the contents of the pipeline but are now digging out the entire pipeline to sell for little profit.”
He warned that those engaged in such acts are actively harming the country’s economic interests and must face justice.
To combat further vandalism, Mr. Ibrahim disclosed that plainclothes officers have been deployed for surveillance on the pipeline.
He said, Additionally, periodic raids in the area will be conducted to deter future incidents of sabotage.
