The Nigerian Railway Cooperation (NRC), police Command, has apprehended Musa Abdullahi, also known as Major, aged 32, in the Rigasa area of Kaduna State. Abdullahi, who is believed to be a key player in the illegal trade of stolen railway materials, was arrested following intelligence reports linking him to the vandalism of electrical installations along the Mando–Rigasa corridor on October 14, 2025.
This was disclosed in a press statement signed by the Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu on 17th October, 2025
In a separate operation in Plateau State, Railway Command officers intercepted a trailer loaded with large quantities of railway components along the KM 822–823 Forom axis in the early hours of the same day. The driver of the truck reportedly fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle, which was later towed to the Jos Railway Police Station for further investigation. Authorities have since launched a manhunt for other individuals connected to the theft.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, commended the Nigeria Police for their swift response, professionalism, and intelligence led operations that led to the success of both incidents.
Dr. Opeifa described the development as a testament to the strengthened partnership between the NRC, Nigeria Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and security agencies in safeguarding the nation’s critical railway assets. He reaffirmed the Corporation’s determination to maintain a zero-tolerance stance on vandalism through enhanced surveillance, intelligence sharing, and community engagement.
He warned that acts of vandalism constitute economic sabotage, stressing that perpetrators, receivers, and their collaborators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Dr. Opeifa also appealed to residents of communities hosting railway infrastructure to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around rail installations. He emphasised that the protection of the railway system is a shared national responsibility, noting that the sector remains central to Nigeria’s economic development and connectivity.
According to the Police, investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the inquiry.
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