Navy hands over suspected militant to security agency

The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the State Security Service (SSS) in Calabar, Cross River State. This follows ongoing security operations aimed at breaking down criminal networks in the Calabar waterways.

Abiodun Folorunsho, the director of naval information, shared this news with the News Agency of Nigeria in Calabar on Wednesday. He said Ekiko Ime, also known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on 24 May.

Naval officers from the NNS VICTORY arrested the suspect at the new security post on Dayspring Island, located in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River.

According to the statement, the arrest came after reliable intelligence linked Ime to a wanted militant named Simeon, who goes by the alias Papi. This militant was reportedly active around the Dayspring Island area.

"Intelligence further indicated that the militant fled the area due to ongoing pressure from NNS VICTORY and left behind some operational items in Ime's care before he escaped."

Folorunsho mentioned that investigations showed the suspect had regular contact with the fugitive militant. Ime also provided information on the movement and deployment of security personnel in the area.

The findings also revealed that Ime was hiding equipment believed to have been used for militant activities in the waterways.

"Further checks on the suspect’s mobile devices and questioning showed that he had a long-term relationship with the militant and had allegedly given support for a long time."

Investigations also found that the items left by the militant were being used by Ime for his personal business.

After preliminary investigations were done, the suspect was officially handed over to the State Security Service for further investigation and possible prosecution under existing laws.

Captain Folorunsho highlighted that handing over the suspect to the SSS is another key result of the ongoing security operations by NNS VICTORY.

He noted that setting up the security outpost at Dayspring Island was in response to increased cases of kidnapping and other crimes in the Calabar-Oron waterways.

The Nigerian Navy pointed out that their continuous intelligence-driven operations and presence in the area have helped weaken criminals, disrupt their support systems, and improve security in the waterways.

"The Service is dedicated to keeping pressure on criminal elements and their partners until real security is achieved and legal economic activities can flourish in the maritime area."