The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) in Cross River State as part of ongoing efforts to combat militancy and criminal activities in the Calabar waterways.
The suspect, identified as Ubong Clement, was arrested by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY deployed at the Forward Security Outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the arrest was made during sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and their support structures within the area.
According to the Navy, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly maintained regular contact with members of militant groups operating around the Dayspring Island axis and was involved in activities that compromised ongoing security operations.
The statement further disclosed that intelligence reports linked Clement to a notorious militant identified as Steven Joseph, popularly known as “Juju,” who has been associated with criminal activities within the waterways.
Investigations also indicated that the suspect allegedly facilitated the disposal of goods stolen from market boats intercepted by militants in the area. The proceeds from the sales were reportedly remitted to the militant network, providing financial and logistical support for its operations.
Following the conclusion of preliminary investigations, the Navy handed the suspect over to the DSS, Calabar Command, for further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.
Folorunsho said the handover demonstrated the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to not only target criminal elements directly involved in militancy but also dismantle the support networks that sustain their operations.
He noted that disrupting local collaborators and facilitators would further degrade the operational capabilities of criminal groups operating within the maritime environment.
The Navy reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations, community engagement and targeted security actions aimed at ensuring lasting peace and security across the Calabar waterways and adjoining communities.
