NPF Foils Railway Vandalism Syndicate, Recovers ₦400m Assets
…Operatives reject ₦100m bribe
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in its crackdown on infrastructure sabotage, dismantling a railway vandalism syndicate and recovering materials valued at over ₦400 million.
The operation, carried out by the Force Intelligence Department–Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS), led to the arrest of two suspects—Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22)—on April 9, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. in Akwanga, following credible intelligence.
In a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the police disclosed that operatives intercepted a trailer transporting approximately 60 tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers.
The items were concealed beneath sacks of groundnut shells in an attempt to evade detection while being moved from Bauchi State to Ilorin.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the truck driver had been contracted for ₦2.5 million to transport the illicit cargo. Further findings point to a well-organised supply chain involving buyers and receivers of stolen railway infrastructure.
In a striking development, the police operatives reportedly rejected a ₦100 million bribe offered to compromise the operation and secure the release of both the suspects and the recovered exhibits.
Authorities confirmed that the trailer used in conveying the materials has been impounded, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate, including its financiers and intended recipients.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the operatives for their professionalism, courage, and integrity, describing their actions as a reflection of the core values of the Force.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure and intensifying efforts to combat vandalism across the country.
