Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rejected a N100 million bribe offered during an investigation into a major railway vandalism syndicate. The operation was conducted by the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad, which intercepted suspects involved in large-scale theft of railway infrastructure.
Arrests and Recovery in Nasarawa State
The arrest took place in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following credible intelligence. Two suspects, Chisom Goodnews, aged 32, and Ahmed Adamu, aged 22, were taken into custody on April 9, 2026. Officers also recovered a trailer loaded with vandalised railway tracks and sleepers. The stolen materials weighed approximately sixty tonnes and were hidden beneath sacks of groundnut shells to avoid detection during transportation.
The shipment was traced from Bauchi State towards Ilorin in Kwara State. Authorities believe the network involves a wider supply chain of receivers and transporters connected to illegal infrastructure trading. Preliminary findings indicate the truck driver received N2.5 million to move the consignment, pointing to an organised system supporting the movement of stolen national assets.
Bribery Attempt Rejected
During the investigation, the officers were allegedly offered N100 million to compromise the probe and release the suspects and seized materials. They declined the offer. The Force described this refusal as a demonstration of discipline and professional integrity.
Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the officers for their firm resistance to corruption and commitment to duty. He stated that their conduct reflects the operational values expected of the Force. Authorities confirmed that the trailer used for illegal transport has been secured, and investigations are ongoing to identify other syndicate members. Efforts are also underway to trace those expected to receive the stolen materials.
IGP Disu Urges Kwarans Not to Surrender to Bandits
In a related development, the Inspector General of Police urged residents of Kwara State not to abandon their communities in the face of rising bandit attacks. He assured them that security forces will reclaim affected areas. The police chief gave this assurance during a visit to the state on March 9, 2026, where he met with security commanders, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to assess the security situation and ongoing operations against criminal groups.
Lagos Police Arrest Seven Suspects
Additionally, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Zone 2 Command in Onikan, Lagos, apprehended seven suspects linked to multiple murders, armed robbery, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearms. The arrests followed a targeted operation launched after credible intelligence identified the suspects' activities.
