Navy Arrests 9 Impostors Operating as Fake Coast Guards in Akwa Ibom
Troops of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee have arrested nine individuals for allegedly engaging in illegal maritime operations under the guise of a non-existent group known as the “Nigerian Coast Guard.”
The Commander of NNS Jubilee, Commodore Abubakar Umar, disclosed this during a press briefing at the naval base in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday. He said the arrest followed credible intelligence reports about the activities of the illegal group in the region.
“Troops of NNS Jubilee apprehended the so-called Coordinator of the Nigerian Coast Guard along with eight members of the group operating within Akwa Ibom State,” Commodore Umar stated.
He emphasized that the operation was in line with the enforcement of the Federal Government’s Official Gazette issued on August 28, 2013, in accordance with the Criminal Code Act, Cap C38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
Read Also:
Umar noted that the Nigerian Constitution vests the Navy with the mandate to ensure that unregistered and illegal entities do not operate within the country’s maritime environment.
“This action aligns with the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla’s directive to rid Nigeria’s maritime domain of criminality and to safeguard national economic interests,” he said.
The Commander warned the public against falling victim to illegal groups masquerading as legitimate maritime authorities. “These impostors use deceptive means to recruit unsuspecting citizens into organisations that are not recognized by law,” he cautioned.
He urged members of the public to report suspicious activities or claims by such groups to the nearest law enforcement agency.
In a broader warning to maritime criminals, Commodore Umar reiterated the Navy’s resolve to clamp down on all forms of illegal activity in Nigerian waters, including crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, sea robbery, and pipeline vandalism.
“The Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, remains unwavering in its commitment to pursue and prosecute all perpetrators of maritime crimes. Anyone caught sabotaging our economy will face the full weight of the law,” he declared.
By PRNigeria
