The Nigerian Navy has scored a significant victory in its sustained offensive against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, arresting a suspected syndicate leader in Bayelsa State.
In a statement issued on April 28, 2026, by Abiodun Folorunsho, personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO executed a coordinated raid in the early hours of April 25 at about 3:00 a.m. in Egbama-Angalabiri, Ekeramo Local Government Area.
Acting on credible intelligence, the operation led to the arrest of a suspect identified as Mr. Godwin, alias “Idiot,” believed to be the mastermind of a notorious pipeline vandalism network operating along the Clough Creek axis.
Folorunsho disclosed that the arrest followed days of surveillance which linked the suspect to recent attacks on oil and gas infrastructure. He was apprehended at a nearby night market, where he was allegedly collecting illegal levies from traders.
A subsequent raid on his residence triggered armed resistance from members of the syndicate. However, naval operatives swiftly overpowered the attackers, forcing them to flee.
A search of the premises yielded two handheld radios and other technical equipment suspected to be used in coordinating illegal operations. Further intelligence efforts led to the arrest of an accomplice, identified as Mr. Happiness, while a pump-action gun was also recovered.
Both suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and prosecution.
The Nigerian Navy reiterated its resolve to protect the nation’s maritime assets and critical infrastructure, vowing to intensify its crackdown on economic sabotage in partnership with other security agencies.
