The Nigerian Navy has arrested three suspected pipeline vandals in Bayelsa State following an intelligence-led operation targeting the sabotage of the Oando–Ondewari crude oil pipeline.
The Nigerian Navy has arrested three suspected pipeline vandals linked to the breach of the Oando–Ondewari crude oil pipeline in Bayelsa State, reinforcing ongoing efforts to protect critical national infrastructure and combat economic sabotage.
The arrests were made by personnel of Operation DELTA SENTINEL during a targeted intelligence-led operation conducted in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday, June 13, 2026, by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho.
According to Folorunsho, the suspects were apprehended for their alleged involvement in the vandalism of the Oando–Ondewari pipeline at Ogboinbiri Community.
He explained that the operation followed reports of a deliberate breach along the pipeline corridor and was carried out jointly by naval personnel and a private pipeline surveillance outfit.
Subsequent inspections at the site confirmed that the pipeline had been vandalised, resulting in a crude oil spill that posed a significant threat to critical national energy infrastructure and the surrounding environment.
Acting on actionable intelligence, security operatives launched a raid on a suspected hideout in Ondewari Community during the early hours of June 12, leading to the arrest of the three suspects.
Folorunsho said preliminary investigations had established the suspects’ alleged involvement in the vandalism, while intelligence gathered during the operation revealed that a fourth suspect remains on the run.
“Preliminary investigations established the suspects’ involvement in the act of vandalism, while further inquiries revealed that a fourth suspect remains at large,” the naval spokesperson stated.
He noted that the operation demonstrates the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding vital oil and gas infrastructure and preventing criminal elements from undermining the nation’s economic interests through acts of sabotage.
According to him, efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspect while investigations continue.
Folorunsho added that upon completion of the investigation, the suspects would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution in accordance with existing laws.
The navy reaffirmed its determination to sustain intelligence-driven operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, aimed at curbing crude oil theft, protecting critical national assets, and enhancing security across Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors.
The latest arrest highlights ongoing efforts by security agencies to tackle pipeline vandalism and illegal activities that continue to threaten oil production, environmental sustainability, and national revenue generation in the Niger Delta region.
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