By Akin Rotimi
The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a syndicate involved in the large-scale vandalisation of railway infrastructure, recovering materials valued at over N400 million and arresting two suspects in Nasarawa State.
Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed that the suspects, Chisom Goodnews, 32, and Ahmed Adamu, 22, were apprehended on April 9, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. in Akwanga following credible intelligence.
According to him, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) intercepted a trailer truck loaded with about 60 tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers.
“The materials were concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in a deliberate attempt to evade detection while being transported from Bauchi State to Ilorin, Kwara State,” he said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the truck driver had been contracted for ₦2.5 million to move the illicit cargo, pointing to a well-organised supply chain linked to receivers of stolen infrastructure.
In a dramatic twist, Placid revealed that the operatives rejected a ₦100 million bribe allegedly offered to secure the release of the suspects and the seized exhibits.
“During the investigation, the operatives involved reportedly rejected an offer of One Hundred Million Naira made in a bid to compromise the process,” he stated.
The police have since recovered the trailer used for the operation and intensified efforts to track down other members of the syndicate.
Commending the officers, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, praised their integrity.
“Their courage, discipline, and incorruptibility exemplify the core values of the Force,” the statement said, reiterating the police commitment to protecting critical national assets.
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