Police Arrest 13 More Suspects Over ₦4.8 Billion Theft at Kainji Power Plant

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The investigation into the massive theft at the Kainji Power Plant has taken a new turn, with authorities confirming additional arrests linked to the high-value vandalism case. The development underscores growing concerns about internal compromise within critical infrastructure in Nigeria.

Arrest Figures Rise Significantly

The Niger State Police Command disclosed that 13 more individuals have been taken into custody, bringing the total number of suspects to 25 in connection with the alleged ₦4.8 billion theft.

This follows earlier arrests tied to the removal of vital components, including navigation lock metals and structural beams from the power facility.

Insider Involvement Raises Alarm

Among the newly detained suspects are two staff members of Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MSEL), the firm responsible for managing the plant. Identified as Abubakar Jibril and Abdullateef Musa, the pair allegedly played a central role in diverting company assets.

Investigators believe the suspects manipulated internal processes by disguising valuable items as part of auctioned materials, enabling the illegal removal and sale of equipment for personal gain.

Details of the Alleged Scheme

According to findings, the operation involved the unauthorized extraction of key materials from the facility, followed by distribution among collaborators. The proceeds from these activities were reportedly shared within the network.

In a restructured account of the allegations, authorities suggested that critical assets were quietly siphoned off through coordinated actions involving insiders and external accomplices.

Security Personnel and Support Staff Implicated

Further revelations indicate that some of the suspects include individuals responsible for safeguarding the facility. Security personnel and maintenance workers were allegedly involved in facilitating the movement and sale of stolen items.

Those identified in this category include:

Aliyu Salihu, also known as Cixxe
Ishaq Suleiman Adam
Nasko Timothy Joseph
Abdulmalik Jimmy Gudah

Additionally, non-security staff such as cleaners were reportedly linked to the operation, highlighting the depth of the alleged conspiracy.

Additional Suspects Under Investigation

Other individuals currently in custody, including Joseph Steven, Babangida Abdullahi, Labaran Haruna, Haruna Usman, Shuaibu Hassan, Musa Salihu, and Sabon Mati, are being interrogated as part of the ongoing probe.

Authorities confirmed that investigations are still active, with efforts focused on uncovering more collaborators and recovering stolen materials.

Police Provide Update on Case Progress

According to DSP Wasiu Abiodun, the case—handled by the State Criminal Investigation Department—has made significant progress since it was transferred for detailed inquiry.

In a reworded briefing, the police indicated that the suspects were apprehended during follow-up operations aimed at dismantling the network responsible for the large-scale theft.

Crackdown on Infrastructure Sabotage

Gossip News Now reports that the Kainji incident has heightened concerns over the vulnerability of Nigeria’s power infrastructure. The scale of the theft suggests a well-organized syndicate operating within and around the facility.

Commentary & Analysis

The unfolding case highlights a critical issue in Nigeria’s energy sector—internal sabotage. The involvement of employees and security personnel points to systemic weaknesses in oversight and accountability.

While the arrests mark progress, the broader challenge lies in preventing future occurrences. Strengthening internal controls, improving surveillance systems, and enforcing stricter penalties may be necessary to safeguard national assets.

If successfully prosecuted, this case could set a precedent for handling crimes involving strategic infrastructure and send a strong message to potential offenders.