The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) following intensified security operations targeting criminal networks operating along the Calabar waterways.
The suspect, identified as Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on May 24, 2026, by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory at the recently established security outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.
According to a statement by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the suspect to a wanted militant known as Simeon, alias Papi, who had allegedly been operating within the Dayspring Island axis.
The Navy said intelligence reports indicated that the militant fled the area due to sustained operational pressure from NNS Victory and left behind certain operational assets in the custody of the suspect.
Investigations reportedly revealed that Ekiko maintained regular communication with the fugitive militant and allegedly provided information regarding the movement and deployment of security personnel operating in the area. He was also linked to the concealment and custody of equipment believed to have supported militant activities within the waterways.
The statement further disclosed that forensic exploitation of the suspect’s mobile devices and subsequent interrogation established a longstanding relationship between him and the wanted militant. Authorities also alleged that the suspect had been using assets abandoned by the militant for personal business activities.
Following the completion of preliminary investigations, the Navy formally transferred the suspect to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.
The handover marks a significant development in ongoing security operations launched by NNS Victory after the establishment of a forward security outpost on Dayspring Island to address increasing incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities along the Calabar-Oron waterways.
The Nigerian Navy said its intelligence-driven operations and sustained presence in the area have continued to weaken criminal networks, disrupt their support structures, and improve security across the waterways.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements and their collaborators to ensure lasting security and create an enabling environment for legitimate maritime and economic activities.
