Navy Clears Personnel, Arrests Shipping Agent Over Alleged N400,000 Fraud
The Nigerian Navy has dismissed allegations of misconduct against its personnel and arrested a shipping agent, Mr. Nsikak Sunday Ekpo, over an alleged N400,000 fraud linked to a rescue operation in Calabar Channel.
In a statement by the Nigerian Navy, the naval officers who was allegedly received payment for providing security cover to Motor Vessel CHIMBA Express, the Navy said its internal investigation found no evidence of financial inducement or any security agreement with the vessel’s operators.
Mr. Ekpo, identified as an agent with PINAPAT Shipping Agency in Calabar, has since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The controversy stems from a 22 December 2025 incident when personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY, NNS OSE and Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka responded to a distress call after a fire broke out onboard the Cameroonian-registered vessel.
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According to the Navy, the response was swift and coordinated, leading to the successful rescue of the vessel and all crew members. However, allegations later surfaced claiming that naval personnel were paid for “security services” and allegedly abandoned the vessel without refund.
The Navy has now debunked the claims, insisting that no officer solicited or received any payment. It further revealed that the allegation was traced to Mr. Ekpo, who allegedly collected N400,000 under the false pretext that it was meant for naval personnel involved in the operation.
Reaffirming its position, the Navy stressed its commitment to discipline, transparency and operational integrity, warning against attempts to exploit its name for fraudulent gain or reputational damage.
“The Nigerian Navy will continue to take decisive action against any individual or group attempting to tarnish its image or exploit its operations for personal enrichment,” the statement added.
The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
By PRNigeria
