Law enforcement officials in Adamawa State have successfully broken up a group involved in pipeline destruction. The operation, led by the Inspector-General of Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering alongside the IGP X-Squad, resulted in the apprehension of seven individuals and the confiscation of 285 segments of NNPC pipelines.
According to Force Public Relations Officer CSP Aniete Okokon Iniedu, authorities acted on intelligence reports from July 9, 2026. This tip allowed officers to intercept a J5 bus traveling along the Yola–Numan Road. The vehicle contained the stolen infrastructure components and was operated by Paul Joshua and Paul Ishiyaku.
The seven individuals in custody are identified as Haruna Usman, Haruna Muhammed Sule, Dabus Peter, Ahmad Adamu, Sadik Ibrahim, Paul Joshua, and Paul Ishiyaku. Beyond the pipeline pieces, authorities seized six gas cylinders, shovels, diggers, and the J5 bus, which bore the registration plate KRD 767 XC. All items are currently being held as evidence.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu reiterated the force’s dedication to securing national infrastructure against economic sabotage. Authorities are currently continuing their investigation to map out the broader criminal network involved. The public is encouraged to assist by sharing relevant information with security agencies.
