The Nigeria Police Force has dealt a decisive blow to economic saboteurs following the dismantling of a sophisticated railway vandalism syndicate by the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS).
The operation resulted in the recovery of critical infrastructure valued at over ₦400 million and highlighted a rare display of integrity as operatives flatly rejected a ₦100 million bribe offered by the suspects.
The breakthrough was confirmed on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, during a press briefing at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
According to the police spokesperson, the successful interception occurred on 9th April 2026 at approximately 18:00 hours in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following a period of intensive intelligence gathering.
The two primary suspects in custody have been identified as Chisom Goodnews, 32, and Ahmed Adamu, 22. They were apprehended while transporting approximately sixty tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers.
In a desperate attempt to bypass security checkpoints, the suspects had concealed the heavy steel components beneath hundreds of sacks of groundnut shells. The illicit cargo was reportedly being moved from Bauchi State with a final destination of Ilorin, Kwara State.
“This arrest is a testament to our enhanced intelligence capabilities and the unwavering commitment of our officers to protect the nation’s commonwealth,” stated DCP Placid. “The suspects went to great lengths to camouflage their activities, even contracting the truck driver for the sum of ₦2.5 million to facilitate the movement of these stolen assets. However, our operatives were one step ahead.”
A defining moment of the operation occurred during the initial investigation when the syndicate attempted to buy their way out of trouble. DCP Placid revealed that the suspects offered a staggering ₦100 million bribe to the FID-STS operatives in exchange for their freedom and the release of the seized exhibits.
“Our officers stood their ground and chose professional integrity over illicit wealth,” DCP Placid remarked. “By rejecting a ₦100 million bribe, these operatives have demonstrated the character of the new Nigeria Police Force. This act of incorruptibility is a clear message to criminals that the national interest is not for sale.”
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has formally commended the team for their courage and discipline. The IGP noted that such high-level vandalism poses a direct threat to the federal government’s efforts to modernise the transport sector and grow the economy.
The recovered trailer truck and the railway materials remain in police custody as evidence. DCP Placid further noted that investigations are being widened to track down the “receivers” and the financiers of the organised supply chain.
The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its mission to safeguard national infrastructure and ensure that all members of the syndicate will face the full weight of the law.
