Navy Transfers 3 Suspects to DSS Over Illegal Arms Possession in Bayelsa
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, under the Central Naval Command, has transferred three suspects to the Department of State Services (DSS) for illegal possession of firearms and involvement in unauthorized maritime security operations in Bayelsa State.
According to Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, Commander of NNS SOROH, the suspects were apprehended on March 9, 2025, during a boarding operation by Forward Operating Base FORMOSO, a unit under NNS SOROH. Acting on credible intelligence, naval personnel intercepted the Motor Fishing Trawler (MFT) Olokun VIII, which was reportedly ferrying armed individuals who had allegedly fired shots to intimidate local fishermen.
Speaking through Navy Captain Jerry Ayim-Odu, Executive Officer of NNS SOROH, Commodore Akinbami disclosed that the boarding team recovered a G3 assault rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and several rounds of ammunition from the vessel.
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Preliminary investigations revealed that the vessel’s captain had illegally hired two members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) as armed escorts without the necessary licenses to carry firearms.
“The vessel, its crew, and the two OPC personnel were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and for providing unauthorized security escort services,” Akinbami stated. “In accordance with naval directives, the suspects have been handed over to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution.”
The Navy warned all seafarers against engaging in criminal activities that threaten maritime security, emphasizing that unauthorized possession of arms or illegal security operations at sea would not be tolerated.
“All individuals are urged to remain law-abiding and refrain from actions that compromise the safety of Nigeria’s maritime domain,” the Commander said.
In his defense, the trawler’s captain, Mr. Elijah Samuel, pleaded ignorance regarding the licensing status of the weapons. He explained that he hired the OPC escorts due to repeated attacks by sea pirates.
“I didn’t know the guns were unlicensed. I’ve been kidnapped twice by pirates, who also stole goods and killed crew members. That’s why I hired the OPC boys to protect us,” Samuel said.
By PRNigeria
