Police Kill Suspected Vandals Attempting to Blow Up Pipeline in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the killing of suspected vandals attempting to sabotage a pipeline in the Aluu and Rumuekpe communities of the state. Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju disclosed this in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, stating that the suspects were neutralized on the spot.

According to Adepoju, the operation was part of an ongoing joint effort by security agencies to protect critical infrastructure. He revealed that the criminals had planned to detonate the pipeline but were stopped by the swift response of security forces at the scene in Ikwerre Local Government Area on March 16.

Following this success, security operatives moved to Onelga Local Government Area on March 19, where they foiled another planned attack involving explosives. During the operation, two suspects were arrested with four dynamites, detonating pods, and other improvised explosive device (IED) components.

In a separate operation on March 21, joint security forces raided a kidnappers’ hideout along Omoku Road in Ahoada East Local Government Area. The operation led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers and the rescue of six victims. Security personnel also recovered weapons, including two pump-action guns, two locally made pistols, four single-barrel guns, live ammunition, and communication equipment.

Adepoju announced that security deployments across the state would be intensified to disrupt criminal activities. A newly established State Operations Control Room will provide real-time surveillance and enable rapid response to security threats.

As part of new enforcement measures, the police have also given a one-week deadline for vehicle owners to register their number plates. Adepoju warned that vehicles without proper registration would be impounded, as they are often used in criminal activities.

The police commissioner issued a stern warning against further vandalism of oil and gas pipelines and other public infrastructure. He assured that security forces would identify, apprehend, and prosecute those involved in such crimes.