Officers of the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad, an arm of the Nigerian Police, have reportedly stopped a significant railway vandalism conspiracy and recovered materials worth more than N400 million while also turning down a N100 million bribe in the process.
In the recovery operation which happened on the 9th of April, 2026, two suspects, 32-year-old Chisom Goodnews and 22-year-old Ahmed Adamu, were apprehended in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.
The offenders, transporting themselves from Bauchi to Kwara, were captured after investigators intercepted a trailer truck carrying over 60 tons of vandalized railway tracks and sleepers were hidden beneath sacks of groundnut shells, according to a statement released on Monday and signed by Force spokesperson Anthony Placid.
“The operation led to the interception of a trailer truck conveying approximately sixty tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers”, Placid said.
“The materials were concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in a deliberate attempt to evade detection.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the driver of the truck was contracted for the sum of N2.5m to transport the vandalised materials, while further findings indicate an organised supply chain linked to receivers of such stolen infrastructure,” he added.
“During the investigation, the operatives involved in the operation reportedly rejected an offer of N100m made in a bid to compromise the process and secure the release of the suspects and exhibits”, Placid said while giving extra reports on the foil operation.
According to the police spokeswoman, preliminary investigations showed that the truck driver had been hired for N2.5 million to transport the pilfered goods, and the situation suggested an organized network engaged in the distribution and theft of vital infrastructure.
He also added that Olatunji Disu, the Inspector-General of Police, has praised the officers of the Nigerian Police.
He reported that the IGP described their acts as an example of bravery, discipline, and incorruptibility, saying they exemplify the essential ideals of the Nigerian Police Force.
