NSCDC Unearths Sophisticated Railway Vandalism Plot in Bauchi, Apprehends Five
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Bauchi State Command has successfully disrupted a significant operation involving the illicit transportation of vandalized railway infrastructure, resulting in the arrest of five individuals. This incident underscores ongoing efforts to combat the theft and destruction of critical national assets across Nigeria.
Intelligence-Led Interception on Miri–Jos Road
Acting on precise intelligence received on 12 January 2026, NSCDC operatives strategically positioned along the Miri–Jos Road intercepted a long-vehicle truck near Gital town in the Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area. The truck, bearing the registration number MDB 360 XA, was reportedly en route to the eastern region of Nigeria, raising concerns about the potential distribution of stolen materials.
Concealment Tactics and Seizure Details
Upon thorough inspection, officers uncovered a cleverly disguised cargo: 80 pieces of vandalized railway tracks and five pairs of slippers hidden beneath bags of chicken feed. This method of concealment was likely designed to evade detection at security checkpoints, highlighting the sophistication of the operation. Saminu Yusuf, the command’s spokesperson, confirmed the seizure, stating that the NSCDC personnel intercepted the truck based on the intelligence received.
In addition to the truck and its illicit contents, the NSCDC recovered a Lexus RX 330 with registration number BWR 60 DN, further implicating the suspects in broader criminal activities. The arrests span a diverse geographical area, with the five suspects identified as Adam Kolo from Borno State, Samuel Musa from Yobe State, Solomon Jankaro from Niger State, and Emmanuel Collins and Sunday David, both from Enugu State.
Manhunt for Escaped Mastermind and Driver
Security forces are now intensifying efforts to apprehend the alleged mastermind, known only as Mr John, and the truck driver, Auwal, both of whom managed to escape during the initial operation and remain at large. This development suggests that the syndicate may have deeper connections, prompting a broader investigation to dismantle the network entirely.
Separate Motorcycle Theft Arrest in Bauchi Metropolis
In a related enforcement action on 14 January 2026, the command arrested Nura Abdullahi in the Bauchi metropolis for his alleged involvement in a motorcycle theft syndicate. Abdullahi reportedly confessed to purchasing stolen motorcycles and selling eight units to a contact in Plateau State for approximately ₦2.02 million. Efforts are ongoing to dismantle the remainder of this syndicate and recover the stolen property, demonstrating the NSCDC’s multifaceted approach to tackling crime in the region.
Commandant’s Commendation and Public Appeal
State Commandant Oloyede Nelson praised the dedication of NSCDC personnel in protecting critical national infrastructure. He issued a stern warning to individuals targeting public assets, emphasizing the corps’ resolve to eliminate vandals from the state. Nelson also appealed to the public for cooperation, urging residents near public infrastructure to provide timely and credible information to the NSCDC or other security agencies whenever they observe suspicious activities.
This incident highlights the persistent challenges of infrastructure vandalism in Nigeria and the crucial role of community involvement in enhancing security measures. The NSCDC’s proactive stance serves as a deterrent to potential offenders while reinforcing the importance of safeguarding national resources for sustainable development.
