Police foil railway vandalism syndicate, recover ₦400m assets, reject ₦100m bribe

Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough against infrastructure vandalism with the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of railway materials valued at over ₦400 million.

According to a statement signed by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, Force Public Relations Officer, on April 27, 2026, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department – Special Tactical Squad (FID‑STS) arrested Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22) on April 9 in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following credible intelligence.

The operation intercepted a trailer truck loaded with approximately 60 tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers, concealed under sacks of groundnut shells. Investigations revealed the driver was contracted for ₦2.5 million to transport the stolen materials from Bauchi State to Ilorin, Kwara State.

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Police operatives reportedly rejected a ₦100 million bribe offered to compromise the process and secure the suspects’ release. The truck used in the operation has been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and recover additional exhibits.

Inspector‑General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the operatives for their courage, discipline, and incorruptibility, stressing that the Force remains committed to safeguarding national assets from vandalism.