The Nigerian Police Force has arrested eight suspects connected to the vandalism of critical railway infrastructure in Katsina State, according to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
The arrests were made after the group was caught trying to remove and steal parts of the Sheme–Gusau rail line.
The suspects were caught in the act at Sheme village while attempting to cart away railway steel sleepers.
Before being apprehended, they had already loosened bolts and nuts from more than 300 steel sleepers.
This rail line forms a crucial part of the national transport system.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has confirmed the arrests.
Three of the individuals were first handed over to the Faskari Local Government Police Division.
This led to further investigation and the arrest of five more suspects, bringing the total number to eight.
In a statement, the Corporation said, “These acts of sabotage not only endanger lives but also disrupt national economic activities.”
Among those arrested were individuals from Kaduna, Katsina, Niger, and Kano States, showing that the operation was not limited to one area.
Legal action is already in motion, with the suspects to appear in the Federal High Court.
Kaduna State’s Ministry of Justice has also been asked to provide legal direction.
Meanwhile, in Sarkin Pawa, Niger State, another case of railway theft has surfaced.
Local vigilantes arrested three suspects who had allegedly stolen over 1,200 pandrol clips.
Sadly, one of the vigilantes was injured during the arrest when he was stabbed by a suspect.
Further police work revealed that the stolen parts were sold to a receiver in Suleja.
Only 15 clips have been recovered so far. Police raided the area and arrested three additional suspects, including the buyer and a man linked to the earlier incident in Sarkin Pawa.
The Suleja receiver is believed to have passed the stolen materials on to another individual, who is still at large.
Police have launched a search to track down all other accomplices involved in the theft.
One more suspect was arrested in Suleja and is currently in custody along with the others in Minna.
These four suspects were brought before a court on July 22, 2025. The judge ruled that they remain in custody for seven more days while recovery efforts continue.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation has praised the efforts of local communities and security agencies.
It stated, “We commend the swift action of the local communities, security operatives, and NRC personnel who contributed to the successful arrests.”
In addition, the Corporation assured Nigerians that all those involved will be held accountable.
It also reminded the public to report any suspicious activity around railway lines.
