NSCDC foils pipeline vandalism attempt, recovers equipment in Edo

Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo State successfully thwarted an attempt to vandalize a Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipeline in the Obazagbon Community, Uhunmwonde Local Government Area. The incident occurred on July 16, 2026, when the Anti-Vandal Unit, working with the Edo State Governor's Office on Pipeline Security, was on patrol.

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On July 16, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m., operatives of the Command’s Anti-Vandal Unit, working in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Pipeline Security and Surveillance, were on a routine patrol along the NNPC pipeline corridor at Obazagbon when they encountered a group of suspected pipeline vandals excavating and vandalising the pipeline.

Upon encountering the suspects who were actively excavating the pipeline, the NSCDC personnel were met with gunfire. The suspects then fled into the surrounding bush, abandoning their operation. The security team recovered five long gas cylinders, two motorcycles, two shovels, and two digger heads from the scene.

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Upon sighting the security operatives, the suspects opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape. The NSCDC personnel responded, forcing the criminals to abandon the operation and flee into the surrounding bush.

State Commandant Akintayo Saidi Ayinla described the foiled vandalism as a significant success in the command's ongoing efforts to protect critical national assets. He warned criminals and their sponsors to cease their activities, assuring the public that the NSCDC is committed to apprehending all involved parties, including those providing support, and bringing them to justice. The commandant also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to aid security agencies.

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Our operatives are already on the trail of the fleeing suspects. They cannot evade justice forever. We are committed to apprehending everyone connected with this criminal act, including their sponsors and collaborators, and ensuring they face the full weight of the law.