The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a suspected pipeline vandalism syndicate in Adamawa State, arresting seven suspects and recovering 285 vandalised Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) pipelines.
The operation was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, who said the breakthrough was recorded by operatives of the IGP Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering in collaboration with the IGP X-Squad.
Police said the operation followed credible intelligence received on July 9, 2026, which led operatives to intercept a J5 bus loaded with suspected vandalised NNPC pipelines along the Yola–Numan Road. The vehicle was driven by Paul Joshua, while Paul Ishiyaku was travelling with him.
The development led to the arrest of Haruna Usman, 28; Haruna Muhammed Sule, 30; Dabus Peter, 38; Ahmad Adamu, 19; Sadik Ibrahim, 31; Paul Joshua, 49; and Paul Ishiyaku, 48.
Searches carried out during the operation led to the recovery of 285 pieces of vandalised pipelines, six gas cylinders, diggers, shovels, a blue J5 bus with registration number KRD 767 XC, and other items suspected to have been used in carrying out the alleged offences. Police said all exhibits have been secured as evidence.
The statement added that the suspects remain in police custody while investigators work to determine the full scope of the alleged criminal network and identify other persons linked to the activities.
The Force reaffirmed its resolve to protect critical national infrastructure and tackle economic sabotage under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
“The Nigeria Police Force under the administration of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reiterates its commitment to the protection of critical national infrastructure and the fight against economic sabotage,” the statement read.
It also urged Nigerians to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, saying, “Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts aimed at combating crime and safeguarding national assets across the country.”