Edo Task Force Arrests Suspects Over Warri-Kaduna Pipeline Theft

The Edo State Task Force on Protection of Government Property has uncovered extensive vandalism of the Warri-Kaduna crude oil pipeline at Ekperi in Etsako Central. Around 30 kilometres of pipeline were reportedly stolen.

Six suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft, which involved the use of excavators and collaboration with some community members, officials said. Some of the stolen pipes have been recovered.

The task force chairman, Eugene Okoloise, also reported arrests linked to the theft of government agricultural machinery and high-tension electricity equipment. The task force has recovered 480 hectares of government land sold illegally by individuals in the state.

Okoloise warned of ongoing challenges related to land encroachment and vowed to continue efforts to protect government property and infrastructure.