Police arrest 2 over Trans-Niger pipeline explosion

The operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested two suspects over their alleged connection with the explosion that occurred at the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, told journalists in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

Iringe-Koko said the explosion affected a Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) facility.

Iringe-Koko stated that the incident, which occurred at midnight on Monday, damaged the pipeline that transported crude oil to the Bonny Terminal, a key crude oil export facility.

She disclosed that the explosion was detected by security operatives during a routine patrol in the area.

Iringe-Koko said: “Operatives observed the incident and immediately alerted SPDC management. SPDC quickly initiated necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline.

Explosion rocks Trans-Niger pipeline in Rivers

“The situation is now under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment.”

The police spokesperson noted that investigations were ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion and assess the extent of the damage.

Iringe-Koko further disclosed that two persons had been taken in for questioning to ascertain whether the incident involved sabotage.

“The command remains committed to ensuring that those responsible for this crime are identified and brought to justice,” Iringe-Koko said.

The police spokesperson urged residents of the area to remain calm and vigilant, saying: “The command is commitment to public safety.”

Iringe-Koko also called on residents of Rivers State to report any security concern to the police.

The explosion occurred amid escalating political tensions over the ongoing impeachment plot against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.

It would also be recalled that some militant groups recently threatened to attack pipelines in the Niger Delta in response to the Supreme Court’s judgement which withheld revenue allocations to Rivers State.

The Star