The Nigerian Navy has arrested a suspected pipeline vandal kingpin and his accomplice in Bayelsa State during an anti-oil theft operation on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
The arrest was confirmed in a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
According to him, the operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base FORMOSO in Egbama-Angalabiri, Ekeremo Local Government Area.
He said the prime suspect, identified as Godwin, popularly known as “Idiot,” was arrested at a night market where he allegedly collected illegal levies from traders.
Captain Folorunsho explained that intelligence reports linked the suspect to a pipeline vandalism network operating in the Clough Creek axis.
He added that naval troops faced resistance during a follow-up operation at the suspect’s residence but successfully repelled armed attackers.
Weapons and communication equipment used for illegal activities were reportedly recovered during the raid.
He further stated that a second suspect, identified as Happiness, was later arrested, and a pump-action gun was recovered.
According to Captain Folorunsho, both suspects have been handed over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps for investigation and prosecution.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to sustained operations against crude oil theft and economic sabotage across the Niger Delta.
