Police nab Kaduna suspect over stolen railway materials

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man in Kaduna, accused of being a key receiver of vandalised railway materials.

The NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, disclosed the development in a statement on Friday, noting it as a significant breakthrough in the corporation’s fight against vandalism.

According to the statement signed by NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the suspect, apprehended around Rigasa, admitted to purchasing stolen electrical cables from vandals for ₦90,000.

The arrest followed intelligence reports of vandalised installations along the Mando–Rigasa corridor on Tuesday, October 14. Investigations are ongoing.

In a related operation, NRC and Police operatives intercepted a trailer carrying large quantities of railway materials in Plateau State along KM 822–823, Forom axis.

The truck was abandoned by its driver, who fled the scene, and was subsequently towed to Jos Railway Police Station on Wednesday, October 15.

Dr. Opeifa praised the Nigeria Police for their professionalism, intelligence-led operations, and swift response.

He described the arrests and recoveries as evidence of strengthened collaboration between the NRC and security agencies in protecting vital railway assets.

He reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to working with the Police, NSCDC, and other security agencies to prosecute vandals, warning that such acts constitute economic sabotage.

He urged communities hosting railway facilities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, emphasizing that safeguarding the railway system is a collective responsibility essential to national development.