By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on maritime criminality, launching a series of coordinated operations that dislodged militants and dismantled their operational base along the Calabar–Oron channel in Cross River State.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory and Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka carried out aggressive clearance operations on Dayspring Island following a spike in kidnappings and related crimes within the area.
The statement revealed that the operation was driven by the establishment of a forward security outpost at Idung 1, also known as Peacock Crossing, which provided a strategic foothold for sustained control of the surrounding creeks and waterways.
Naval forces reportedly overwhelmed the militants, forcing them to abandon their positions and flee under pressure. In a joint effort with troops of the Nigerian Army 13 Brigade, the Navy secured critical waterways and restricted the movement of criminal elements across the operational corridor.
Further exploitation of the area led to the discovery of a militant hideout in the Idung axis linked to a suspected kingpin identified as “Juju.” The suspect escaped during the operation, leaving behind two boats fitted with outboard engines, which were seized by troops. The hideout was subsequently destroyed to prevent its reuse.
In a related development, security forces apprehended a suspected informant believed to have been aiding the militant network. The individual is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation ahead of prosecution.
To consolidate gains and curb further criminal activities, the Navy has enforced a 13-hour restriction on maritime movement within the area, effective from 5:00 pm to 6:00 am daily.
The Navy noted that prior to the operation, militant groups operated freely, carrying out kidnappings and extortion in riverine communities. However, sustained military pressure has significantly degraded their capabilities, disrupted their logistics, and confined their activities deeper into the creeks.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining an aggressive operational posture to eliminate criminal elements and ensure the safety and security of the nation’s maritime environment.
