Troops Nabs 47 Rail Track Vandals in Kaduna

In a statement released on the Nigerian Army’s verified Facebook page on Saturday, it was reported that the suspects were detained on Thursday.

According to the statement, the troops while on routine patrol along Kakau Daji-Anguwan Ayaba, intercepted and arrested the 47 suspected rail track vandals on 26 June 2024.

The suspects, who had loaded two trucks with vandalized rail tracks before their arrest, disclosed they were hired by an individual known as Alhaji Babawo, who remains at large.

During a profiling session at the 312 Artillery Regiment in Kaduna, Lt. Col. I.Y. Rena, Acting Commander of the 1 Division Provost Group, explained that the suspects were being profiled to determine their level of involvement.

He mentioned that each suspect was interviewed and cross-examined individually, and efforts are underway to apprehend the gang leader.

Lt. Col. Rena revealed that a visit to the crime scene uncovered more vandalized rail tracks concealed in a nearby bush, awaiting collection by the criminal syndicate.

The suspects were handed over to the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s Kaduna Station, represented by Divisional Crime Officer ASP Inuwa Dahiru. Lt. Col. Rena urged security agencies to make concerted efforts to secure the rail tracks against further vandalism.

ASP Dahiru praised the Nigerian Army for their swift action and collaboration with other security agencies in addressing the security challenges facing the state. He assured that all 47 suspects would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to deter other potential offenders.

Maj. Gen. M.L.D. Saraso, General Officer Commanding the 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Whirl Punch, commended the troops for their professionalism during and after the arrests. He urged the troops to remain steadfast and focused in their mission to eliminate criminal activities within their area of responsibility.