Officers of the Nigeria Police Force have rejected a ₦100 million bribe while successfully foiling a major railway vandalism syndicate and recovering materials valued at over ₦400 million.
The operation, carried out by the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad, led to the arrest of two suspects—32-year-old Chisom Goodnews and 22-year-old Ahmed Adamu—on April 9, 2026, in Akwanga.
According to a statement issued Monday by Force spokesperson, Anthony Placid, the suspects were apprehended following credible intelligence.
Operatives intercepted a trailer truck conveying about 60 tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers. The materials had been concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in an attempt to evade detection while being transported from Bauchi State to Ilorin.
Placid stated, “The operation led to the interception of a trailer truck conveying approximately sixty tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers. The materials were concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in a deliberate attempt to evade detection.”
Preliminary investigations revealed a broader criminal network behind the operation. The truck driver was reportedly contracted for ₦2.5 million to transport the vandalised materials.
Further findings point to an organised supply chain involving multiple actors, including receivers of stolen railway infrastructure.
During the investigation, the operatives reportedly turned down a ₦100 million bribe offered in a bid to compromise the case and secure the release of both the suspects and the recovered exhibits.
The police confirmed that the trailer truck has been secured, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the officers for their integrity and professionalism.
He noted that their actions “exemplify the core values of the Force,” describing the operation as a demonstration of courage, discipline, and incorruptibility.
Investigations into the syndicate are ongoing.
