The Rivers State Police Command has launched a formal investigation into the fire that engulfed a section of the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)-operated Trans Niger Delta Pipeline at the Kpor-Bodo community boundary, amid growing suspicion of sabotage.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Command confirmed that security operatives on routine night patrol discovered the blaze and swiftly alerted SPDC.
The oil firm, in response, activated emergency protocols and shut down the affected pipeline segment to contain the incident.
While the police described the situation as “under control” with no immediate threat to lives or the environment, the arrest of two individuals raises questions about possible criminal involvement.
Authorities stopped short of labeling the explosion a deliberate act but emphasized a “thorough investigation” is underway to uncover the root cause and potential foul play.
The statement, however, reads more as a reassurance campaign than a disclosure of actionable findings, offering little clarity on the suspects’ identities or motives.
The call for public vigilance and the publication of contact numbers suggest that investigators may lack critical leads and are appealing for community input to advance the case.
Amid this, the Police Command reiterated its commitment to law enforcement, promising that any perpetrators will be brought to justice.
However, in a state grappling with political tensions and threats to vital oil infrastructure, this incident underscores both the vulnerability of Nigeria’s energy assets and the pressing need for transparent, effective security measures.
Critics may argue that the statement leans heavily on procedural assurances rather than offering substantive details, leaving the public to speculate on whether this was a preventable breach of security or part of a broader pattern of neglect in protecting critical infrastructure.
Credit: The Nation except headline
