Three suspects have been arrested by the Nigerian Navy on charges of vandalizing an oil pipeline in Bayelsa State after an operation against vandals who operate on the pipelines.
The three suspects were arrested in Ogbonibiri Community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area due to their participation in the pipeline vandalism along the Oando-Ondewari pipeline.
The operation to arrest the suspects was conducted by Navy officers together with a private pipeline surveillance firm according to the Nigerian Navy’s spokesperson, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
The operation was conducted following reports of intentional vandalism of the pipeline route. An inspection revealed that the pipeline had indeed been vandalized, causing crude oil leakage and sparking fears for the security of important national energy infrastructure.
Speaking on the development, Folorunsho disclosed that naval operatives conducted an operation in Ondewari Community at dawn of June 12, 2026, arresting three suspects alleged to be responsible for the act.
According to him, initial investigations indicated that the suspects were indeed involved in the act, although a fourth suspect allegedly managed to escape.
According to the Navy, attempts are being made to trace the fugitive and conduct full investigations on him, after which he will be charged to the right authorities.
Folorunsho further emphasized that such an exercise indicates the commitment of the Navy in safeguarding the oil and gas resources of Nigeria from any form of sabotage.
Furthermore, Folorunsho emphasized that the navy is set to undertake more intelligence-led operations through Operation DELTA SENTINEL in combating crude oil theft and securing infrastructures.
The arrest of the suspects shows how security organizations have been working hard to solve pipeline vandalism and ensure the protection of the oil industry of Nigeria.
