Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on maritime crime, launching a decisive operation that dislodged suspected militants and dismantled their base in Cross River State.
The offensive, carried out by personnel of NNS Victory and the Forward Operating Base Ibaka, targeted criminal hideouts along the Calabar–Oron channel, particularly around Dayspring Island, following a surge in kidnappings in the area.
Naval authorities in a statement say troops stormed the island in a coordinated clearance operation, forcing the militants to flee under pressure.
Working alongside soldiers of the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade, security forces secured key waterways and restricted the movement of criminal elements across the creeks.
A major breakthrough came with the discovery and demolition of a militant hideout in the Idung axis, reportedly linked to a wanted suspect known as “Juju.” The suspect escaped during the operation, abandoning two speedboats fitted with outboard engines, which were seized by the troops.
Also , the Nigeria Navy arrested one suspected informant believed to be aiding the militant network. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation ahead of prosecution.
To consolidate the gains, the Nigerian Navy has imposed a 13-hour restriction on maritime movement within the area, from 5 p.m. to 6 a.m., aimed at curbing further criminal activity.
Naval Authorities say the operation has significantly weakened the militants’ capabilities, disrupted their logistics, and restored a measure of safety to affected riverine communities.
The Nigerian Navy says it will sustain the pressure until all criminal elements are flushed out and the waterways remain secure for lawful activities.