By Williams Okoro

The Nigerian Navy, through personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso, has recorded a major operational breakthrough in the ongoing fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.

On 25 April 2026 at about 03:00 hours, FOB Formoso personnel, acting on credible intelligence, carried out a coordinated raid at Egbama-Angalabiri in Ekeramo Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The operation led to the arrest of one Mr Godwin, also known as “Idiot”, identified as the leader of a notorious pipeline vandalism syndicate operating within the Clough Creek axis.

The operation followed sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance, which confirmed the suspect’s involvement in recent attacks on critical oil and gas infrastructure, as well as details of his residence and movement patterns. He was apprehended at a nearby night market where he was reportedly extorting illegal levies from traders.

In a follow up operation to search his residence, naval personnel encountered resistance from armed members of the syndicate. The situation was swiftly contained through a coordinated tactical response, forcing the attackers to retreat.

A search of the residence led to the recovery of two handheld radios and other equipment used for illicit activities. Further intelligence exploitation resulted in the arrest of another suspect, Mr Happiness, believed to be an associate, as well as the recovery of a pump action gun.

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

The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain and protecting critical national assets. It also pledged to sustain aggressive operations against all forms of economic sabotage in collaboration with other security agencies, while warning criminal elements to desist or face decisive action.