Nine Oxygen Cylinders Recovered as NRC, NSCDC Thwart Rail Vandalism in Osogbo

Nine Oxygen Cylinders Recovered as NRC, NSCDC Thwart Rail Vandalism in Osogbo

Suspected railway vandals fled for their lives after security operatives swooped on a railway siding serving the Dangote Steel Rolling Mills in Osogbo, Osun State, recovering nine oxygen gas cylinders allegedly deployed for the illegal operation.

The recovery operation, carried out by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), followed a report of vandalisation of railway track materials at the siding, currently not in operation.

According to a statement issued by the NRC Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, and signed for the management, the Principal Track Officer (PTO), Osogbo, received a report on Friday, August 28, 2026, concerning the ongoing vandalisation of railway track materials at the location.

Following the report, the PTO proceeded to the site with security personnel, including officers of the NSCDC Railway Command. On sighting the operatives, the suspected vandals reportedly fled the scene.

A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of nine oxygen gas cylinders, which were allegedly being used in the illegal operation.

The recovered railway materials and the surrounding area have since been secured by security personnel, the NRC said.

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Reacting to the development, NRC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kayode Opeifa, commended the security personnel for their vigilance and timely intervention, describing the operation as another significant success in the sustained efforts to protect railway infrastructure from vandals and economic saboteurs.

Opeifa directed security operatives to intensify surveillance and enforcement at the Dangote Steel Rolling Mills siding and other railway corridors nationwide.

He also urged security formations across the railway network to strengthen collaboration with relevant agencies to prevent the vandalisation and theft of railway assets.

The NRC boss appealed to members of the public, particularly communities located along railway corridors, to promptly report suspicious activities around railway tracks, stations and other railway facilities.

He stressed that railway infrastructure constitutes critical national assets whose protection is essential to the safety of rail operations, sustainability of services and the economic development of the country.

Opeifa further assured that the NRC would continue to provide necessary support to security agencies in the collective effort to stamp out vandalism and other acts capable of undermining railway operations across the country.

The statement said the NRC remains committed to strengthening collaboration with security agencies to safeguard railway infrastructure nationwide.

 

Nine Oxygen Cylinders Recovered as NRC, NSCDC Thwart Rail Vandalism in Osogbo