The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under the aegis of Central Naval Command (CNC), has handed over two suspects, arrested for pipeline vandalism and illegal arms possession to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC ) in Bayelsa.
Rear Adm. Suleiman Ibrahim, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Central Naval Command, stated that personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO Brass, in conjunction with Nigerian Army personnel deployed from 5 Battalion Elele, Rivers, recorded a major operational success with the arrest.
This is contained in a statement signed by Commander Rasheed Iginla, Command Information Officer, Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, on Sunday.
The suspect is the gang leader of pipeline vandals linked to attacks on pipeline and oil infrastructure within Clough Creek and its environs.
According to him, the arrest was carried out on April 25, during a well coordinated intelligence driven operation at his residence in Egbama-Angalabiri, Ekeramo Local Government of Bayelsa.
FOC said the operation was carried out in response to recent surge in incidents of vandalism and sabotage in the area.
“He was arrested alongside a suspected accomplice. Items recovered during the operation include, a pump action rifle and two walkie talkies.
“Subsequently, on April 26, the suspects and exhibits were handed over to the NSCDC Bayelsa command for further investigation and necessary prosecution.
“This operation once again, highlights the resolve of the base to rid its area of operations of criminal elements to enhance the maritime security as well as ensure a safe operating environment for oil companies and maritime stakeholders,” he said.
The FOC commended the Commanding Officer Forward Operating Base FORMOSO, Capt. Sunday Haruna for the operation and encouraged the base to sustain offensive posture toward attaining the strategic crude oil output of the nation.
“An officer sustained a gunshot wound to the right leg during the operation but he has since received appropriate medical attention and is currently in a stable condition.
