Navy Intercepts Suspected Pipeline Vandals, Recovers Stolen Oil Infrastructure In Imo

The Nigerian Navy has disrupted a suspected pipeline vandalism operation in Imo State, recovering 10 sections of crude oil pipeline allegedly removed illegally from the Addax Petroleum pipeline network and arresting two suspects believed to be connected to the operation.

The interception was carried out by personnel of Naval Base (NB) Oguta in Oguta Local Government Area of the state as part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat economic sabotage targeting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure.

According to the Navy, the operation was intelligence-driven and focused on preventing criminal groups involved in pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft and other activities capable of undermining national economic assets.

The Director of Information, Nigerian Navy, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, confirmed the development in a statement, saying the operation resulted in the interception of a Mercedes truck transporting suspected stolen pipeline materials.

He said the truck was found conveying 10 sections of crude oil pipeline suspected to have been illegally removed from the Addax Petroleum pipeline network along the Osu–Obodo Road corridor in Oguta Local Government Area.

The Navy said two suspects believed to be members of the alleged pipeline vandalism network were arrested during and after the operation.

According to the statement, one of the suspects was apprehended while allegedly escorting the consignment, while another suspected member of the syndicate was arrested during follow-up operations by security personnel.

The Navy said efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the group who are currently at large.

The recovered pipeline sections have been secured as part of evidence for ongoing investigations into the alleged criminal activity.

The Navy said the interception prevented the suspects from moving the vandalised pipeline materials away from the area, thereby limiting further damage to critical oil infrastructure and preserving evidence that could assist investigators.

Pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft have remained major challenges facing Nigeria’s oil sector, affecting production levels, government revenue and environmental safety in oil-producing communities.

Security agencies have intensified operations across oil-producing regions in recent years as authorities seek to dismantle organised networks involved in the theft and illegal diversion of petroleum resources.

Navy Captain Folorunsho said the latest operation demonstrates the Nigerian Navy’s continued commitment to protecting strategic oil and gas assets through intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations.

He said the Navy would continue working with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to sustain pressure on criminal groups involved in pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage.

“The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in working with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to sustain pressure on criminal elements, protect critical national assets, and enhance internal security in support of national economic stability,” he said.

The Navy’s latest action comes amid broader government efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s energy infrastructure and reduce losses associated with attacks on oil facilities.