Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian Navy has dismantled an emerging militant camp in Rivers State, in a renewed intelligence-led operation targeting criminal networks linked to kidnapping, pipeline vandalism, and sea robbery in the Niger Delta.
The operation, carried out on June 25, 2026, in the Soku axis, marks another escalation in the Navy’s sustained offensive against militant relocation attempts and illegal oil-related activities in Nigeria’s coastal and riverine communities.
According to s statement by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH were deployed following credible intelligence indicating that a suspected militant group had relocated from the Nembe axis to establish a new operational base in the Soku general area of Rivers State.
On arrival, naval patrol teams reportedly observed clear signs of recent human activity consistent with efforts to set up a new camp. A systematic search of the location led to the recovery of communication equipment and other operational materials, including approximately 150 metres of 4-inch industrial hose suspected to be intended for illegal bunkering operations.
The camp was subsequently destroyed to prevent its reuse by criminal elements.
Preliminary intelligence suggests the dismantled group is linked to a wider network allegedly involved in kidnapping, pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering, and sea robbery. Security officials say the relocation attempt highlights ongoing efforts by criminal groups to re-establish operational footholds in the Niger Delta despite sustained military pressure.
The Navy described the operation as strategically significant, noting that disrupting such camps at an early stage prevents the consolidation of criminal infrastructure that could threaten national economic assets and maritime security.
The statement added that the operation reflects its continued shift toward proactive, intelligence-driven maritime security operations, aimed at detecting and neutralising threats before they become fully operational.
However, it added that sustained surveillance and coordinated patrols remain central to degrading the capabilities of militant groups operating within Nigeria’s waterways.
The Navy also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime domain awareness, while enhancing collaboration with other security agencies and host communities to secure the Niger Delta region.
Reiterating its operational stance, the Navy said it will continue offensive operations against criminal networks, particularly those targeting oil and gas infrastructure critical to Nigeria’s economy.