Troops Engage Suspected Pipeline Vandals in Rivers, Launch Manhunt
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Joint Task Force South-South under Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) have launched a manhunt for suspected pipeline vandals following an attack on a gas pipeline in Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Security sources said the operation followed intelligence gathered from a drone patrol at about 11:55 p.m. on June 17, which detected suspected vandalism activities around the Odua general area of the local government.
Acting on the intelligence, troops of the 16 Brigade Garrison and 5 Battalion swiftly mobilised to the scene under the leadership of their respective commanders.
The sources disclosed that the troops made contact with armed suspects believed to be involved in pipeline vandalism.
During the encounter, the suspects reportedly detonated explosive devices, causing damage to a section of a gas pipeline before fleeing the area.
The troops have since commenced a search operation to track down and apprehend the suspects, while efforts are ongoing to secure the affected facility and prevent further acts of sabotage.
Military authorities reiterated their commitment to protecting critical national assets and warned criminal elements involved in economic sabotage to desist or face the full weight of the law.
