The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) says its operatives have foiled an attempt to vandalize a pipeline and recovered equipment allegedly used by the suspects in Obazagbon Community, Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.
In a statement issued on Friday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Ogbebor Efosa, said the operation was carried out on July 16, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m. by members of the Anti-Vandal Unit in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Pipeline Security and Surveillance.
According to the statement, the operatives were conducting a routine patrol along the NNPC pipeline corridor in Obazagbon when they encountered a group of suspected vandals excavating and damaging the pipeline.
The suspects reportedly opened fire on the security team after spotting the operatives in an attempt to escape. The NSCDC said its personnel overpowered the attackers, forcing them to abandon the operation and flee into the surrounding bush.
The command recovered five long gas cylinders, two motorcycles, two shovels and two digger heads from the scene.
The NSCDC described the recovery as another breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, particularly oil and gas facilities.
The command warned criminals and their sponsors to stay away from government installations, stressing that operatives were already pursuing the fleeing suspects.
“Our operatives are already on the trail of the fleeing suspects. They cannot evade justice forever. We are committed to apprehending everyone connected with this criminal act, including their sponsors and collaborators, and ensuring they face the full weight of the law,”
The NSCDC appealed to residents of Edo State to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to help prevent vandalism and other criminal activities.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to working with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.
