The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Command, has thwarted an attempt by suspected vandals to damage an oil pipeline and recovered equipment believed to have been used for the operation in Obazagbon Community, Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.
The State Commandant, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, made this known in a statement issued on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, Ogbebor Efosa.
Ayinla said operatives of the command’s Anti-Vandal Unit, working alongside 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 on July 16 when they came across a group of suspected vandals digging around the pipeline.
He explained that the suspects opened fire after noticing the security team in a bid to escape. The operatives responded, forcing the suspects to abandon their operation and flee into the surrounding bush.
Items recovered at the scene include five long gas cylinders, two motorcycles, two shovels and two digger heads.
Describing the operation as another major success, the commandant said it reflects the command’s determination to protect critical national assets and infrastructure across the state.
He warned those involved in vandalising government facilities, particularly oil and gas installations, to desist or face the consequences of their actions.
Ayinla added that efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects as well as anyone linked to the attempted vandalism, including their sponsors and collaborators.
He also appealed to residents to continue providing useful information that would help security agencies prevent vandalism and other criminal activities, assuring them that all information received would be handled with strict confidentiality.
The commandant reaffirmed the NSCDC Edo State Command’s commitment to collaborating with other security agencies and stakeholders to protect critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of lives and property in Edo State.
