The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has stopped an attempted pipeline vandalism operation and recovered several items believed to have been used by the suspects in Obazagbon Community, Uhunmwonde Local Government Area.
The development was disclosed on Friday in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, Ogbebor Efosa, quoting the State Commandant, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla.
According to the statement, “On July 16, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m., operatives of the Command’s Anti-Vandal Unit, working in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Pipeline Security and Surveillance, were on a routine patrol along the NNPC pipeline corridor at Obazagbon when they encountered a group of suspected pipeline vandals excavating and vandalising the pipeline.
“Upon sighting the security operatives, the suspects opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape. The NSCDC personnel responded, forcing the criminals to abandon the operation and flee into the surrounding bush.
“Items recovered from the scene include five long gas cylinders, two motorcycles, two shovels and two digger heads.”
Ayinla described the operation as a major success in the command’s ongoing efforts to secure critical national assets and infrastructure from criminal attacks.
He warned vandals and those backing them to stay away from government facilities, particularly oil and gas installations, stressing that security operatives would continue to pursue offenders.
“Our operatives are already on the trail of the fleeing suspects. They cannot evade justice forever. We are committed to apprehending everyone connected with this criminal act, including their sponsors and collaborators, and ensuring they face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The commandant also appealed to residents to assist security agencies with useful information that could help prevent pipeline vandalism and other crimes, assuring them that all reports would be handled confidentially.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to working with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure the protection of lives and property across Edo State.
