Oyo Police Arrest 3 Railway Vandals, Recover ₦200m Stolen Tracks

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a railway vandalism syndicate and recovered stolen rail tracks valued at about ₦200 million.

The operation marks another breakthrough in the Command’s campaign against economic sabotage and the destruction of critical national infrastructure. Police said the success followed a timely tip-off from a vigilant resident.

The suspects are currently assisting investigators as efforts continue to dismantle the wider criminal network.

Swift police operation foils criminal plan

Police operatives from the Command Monitoring Unit acted on credible intelligence received on Tuesday, July 14. The team quickly mobilised to Gambari in the Orile-Igbon area of Oyo State.

At about 1:45 pm, officers intercepted the suspects before the stolen railway materials reached their destination. Those arrested were identified as Waheed Ayinde, 54, Muhammed Sani, 27, and Hassan Ibrahim, 22.

The operation also led to the recovery of vandalised railway tracks valued at approximately ₦200 million.

Officers further seized a HOWO truck with registration number CAL 972 XA, allegedly used to transport the stolen materials.

Police investigation reveals organised syndicate

Preliminary findings showed the railway tracks were illegally removed from Niger State. Investigators said the stolen materials were transported into Oyo State before being moved to Lagos.

Police believe each suspect played a specific role in the operation. Investigators identified one suspect as the contracted driver. Another allegedly coordinated the movement, while the third reportedly provided temporary storage in Ogbomoso.

The suspects have reportedly made useful confessional statements and are cooperating with investigators.

Police intensify hunt for other railway vandals

The command said efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the syndicate. Investigators are also working to recover additional exhibits linked to the operation.

Police confirmed that a comprehensive investigation is underway before prosecution begins.

The Command pledged to ensure everyone connected to the alleged crime faces justice.

Oyo State commissioner of police praises public support

Reacting to the operation, Commissioner of Police Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga praised the resident whose information led to the arrests.

He described the breakthrough as evidence of the value of intelligence-led policing and community partnership.

“Every actionable intelligence will receive prompt operational response,” the Commissioner assured residents.

He urged members of the public to continue sharing credible information with security agencies.

The commissioner also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure and preventing Oyo State from becoming a haven for criminals involved in economic sabotage.