By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Nigerian Navy has apprehended a suspected pipeline vandal kingpin and his accomplice in Bayelsa State in a major crackdown on crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.

This was contained in a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, on Monday in Abuja.

Folorunsho said the arrest was carried out by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO during a targeted operation at Egbama-Angalabiri in Ekeramo Local Government Area.

According to him, the prime suspect, identified as Mr Godwin, popularly known as “Idiot,” was apprehended at a night market where he was allegedly extorting illegal levies from traders.

Folorunsho said intelligence had earlier linked the suspect to a notorious pipeline vandalism syndicate operating along the Clough Creek axis, with involvement in attacks on critical oil infrastructure.

He added that troops encountered resistance from armed gang members during a follow-up search of the suspect’s residence but swiftly repelled the attackers.

“A search conducted at the location led to the recovery of communication equipment and other tools used for illegal operations,” he said.

The navy spokesman further disclosed that continued exploitation of intelligence led to the arrest of another suspect, Mr Happiness, believed to be an accomplice, and the recovery of a pump-action gun.

“The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and prosecution.

He reaffirmed the navy’s resolve to sustain aggressive operations against crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage in collaboration with security agencies.

He also warned criminal elements to desist from illegal activities or face decisive action. (NAN)