Security Operatives Arrest Suspect As Trans–Niger Pipeline Resumes Operation After Rivers Explosion.
Security agencies have arrested a suspect linked to the recent explosion on the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) Right of Way in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Council, Rivers State. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, raised concerns over pipeline vandalism and its impact on oil production.
Meanwhile, operations have resumed on the TNP in Bodo, Gokana Local Council, following temporary disruptions caused by the explosion.
Breakthrough in Investigation
The arrest was made possible through credible intelligence gathered by the covert team of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL). According to an operations staff member, Ebikeme, the explosion led to the death of a suspected vandal at the scene. Further investigations resulted in the apprehension of another suspect, who is now in police custody as authorities continue their efforts to identify other perpetrators.
Additional blasts were reported on Monday night and Tuesday morning at Bodo and an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Council. Security agencies are intensifying investigations to prevent further incidents.
Oil Flow Restored via Alternative Route
Following the damage to the main TNP line, crude oil has been rerouted through an alternative pipeline, which successfully passed an integrity test. Renaissance Group, the consortium that owns the pipeline, confirmed that repairs are ongoing while oil exports continue. The TNP, with a capacity of around 450,000 barrels per day, is a vital channel for Bonny Light crude exports.
Renaissance Group’s spokesperson, Tony Okonedo, confirmed the resumption of operations, stating:
“We previously suspended operations to respond to third-party interference, but now we have resumed.”
NNPCL Dismisses Port Harcourt Refinery Explosion Claims
Earlier reports suggested a fire outbreak at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), which was later debunked by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that the incident was a controlled flare, posing no threat to refinery workers or surrounding communities.
He urged the public to disregard claims of an explosion, assuring that the situation had been fully contained.
Geometric Power Announces Temporary Disruption
In a related development, Geometric Power Aba Limited (GPAL) has announced a temporary power supply disruption in Abia State due to the explosion at TNP, which supplies gas to its facilities.
GPAL stated that it is working closely with stakeholders to resolve the issue promptly, while power supply continues through grid imports from Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC). The company assured customers that the outage would be short-lived, with efforts underway to restore full capacity soon.
With investigations ongoing and security heightened, authorities remain committed to ensuring the stability of critical infrastructure and the safety of residents in the affected regions.
