The Nigerian Navy has apprehended three individuals suspected of involvement in the vandalism of the Oando-Ondewari pipeline in Bayelsa State. This development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, on Friday in Abuja.
Arrests Under Operation DELTA SENTINEL
According to Captain Folorunsho, the suspects were arrested by personnel of Operation DELTA SENTINEL for allegedly vandalising the Oando-Ondewari pipeline at Ogboinbiri Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. The arrest followed a joint intelligence-led operation conducted by naval personnel in collaboration with a private pipeline surveillance outfit, after reports of a deliberate breach along the pipeline corridor.
Pipeline Vandalism Confirmed
He added that a subsequent inspection confirmed that the pipeline had been vandalised, resulting in the spillage of crude oil, which posed a threat to critical national energy infrastructure. Acting on actionable intelligence, naval personnel conducted a targeted raid on a suspected hideout at Ondewari community in the early hours of 12 June, leading to the arrest of three suspects.
“Preliminary investigations established the suspects’ involvement in the act of vandalism, while further inquiries revealed that a fourth suspect remains at large,” Captain Folorunsho stated.
Navy’s Commitment to Protecting Infrastructure
The naval spokesperson said the operation underscored the navy’s commitment to protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure, as well as denying economic saboteurs the opportunity to undermine Nigeria’s economic interests through acts of vandalism and sabotage. He also confirmed that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and conclude investigations.
“On conclusion of investigation, the arrested suspects will be handed over to the appropriate agency for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws,” he said.
Continued Operations
Captain Folorunsho reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to safeguard critical national assets, curb crude oil theft, and ensure the security of Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors.
