Security agencies in Rivers State, including the Nigerian Police Force, Army, Navy, and Air Force, say they have successfully thwarted an attempt to bomb a major pipeline in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the joint security forces, Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, assured residents that law enforcement agencies are committed to protecting critical national infrastructure and maintaining peace.
“I extend our profound commendation to the joint patrol operations conducted by the Police, the armed forces, and other sister agencies, which have diligently executed their mandate to support the objective of the state of emergency in Rivers State,” Adepoju said during a press briefing.
He emphasized that the ongoing security measures were necessary to prevent a breakdown of law and order, particularly in the face of potential exploitation by criminal elements.
“It is imperative to emphasize that this phase of security activities is a necessary measure to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order,” he said. “I assure the good people of Rivers State that this is a temporary phase, and in due time, we will all witness a more peaceful and secure state.”
Adepoju also highlighted the need to protect vital national assets, particularly oil pipelines, from criminals, including oil thieves, vandals, kidnappers, and cultists.
Revealing details of the foiled pipeline attack, Adepoju stated that a suspect died while attempting to detonate an explosive device at a pipeline in Aluu-Rumuekpe, Ikwerre Local Government Area.
“Over the past week, the joint efforts of security agencies in Rivers State have thwarted attempts by miscreants to vandalize pipelines. One vandal was killed in the process of trying to detonate an explosive at a pipeline in Ikwerre LGA, but for the swift intervention of security forces,” he said.
He further disclosed that security operatives have intensified anti-crime operations across the state, resulting in the rescue of kidnapped victims, arrests of criminal suspects, and the dismantling of illegal refining sites.
“In another case, security forces stormed the hideout of kidnappers along Omoku Road in Ahoada East LGA on March 21, leading to the arrest of eight male suspects and the rescue of six victims,” Adepoju reported.
Recovered items from the operation included firearms, ammunition, motorcycles, and communication equipment.
Additionally, two suspects were apprehended in Onelga LGA with explosives, including four dynamites, detonating pods, and switches.
The CP further disclosed that in efforts to curb oil theft, authorities had destroyed 30 illegal refining sites, 55 ovens, 20 reservoirs, and 50 dug-out pits. He added that 100,000 liters of stolen crude oil and 10,000 liters of illegally refined diesel had been handled in line with regulatory guidelines.
As security operations intensify, Adepoju urged residents to provide law enforcement agencies with credible intelligence on individuals or groups involved in criminal activities.
“The success of our security efforts depends not only on our forces but also on the vigilance and cooperation of the public,” he stated.