Navy Hands Over Suspected Militant Collaborator to DSS in Cross River
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 operations to dismantle criminal networks operating within the Calabar waterways.
The suspect, identified as Mr 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.
According to the Nigerian Navy, the arrest followed sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at disrupting militancy and criminal activities within the maritime environment.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly maintained regular contact with members of militant groups operating around the Dayspring Island axis.
The Navy further disclosed that intelligence linked the suspect to a notorious militant identified as Steven Joseph, also known as “Juju,” who has allegedly been associated with criminal activities in the waterways.
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“Preliminary investigations established that the suspect allegedly maintained regular contact with members of militant groups operating within the Dayspring Island axis and was involved in activities that compromised ongoing security operations,” the statement said.
The Navy added that further findings indicated the suspect allegedly acted as a conduit for the disposal of goods stolen from market boats intercepted by militants in the area.
According to the statement, proceeds from the sale of the stolen items were reportedly remitted to militant networks, thereby providing financial and logistical support for their operations.
Following the conclusion of preliminary investigations, the suspect was handed over to the DSS, Calabar Command, for further investigation and possible prosecution in line with extant laws.
The Navy said the development underscores its determination not only to target criminal elements directly involved in militancy but also to dismantle the support structures sustaining their operations.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations, community engagement and targeted security actions to ensure lasting peace and security within the Calabar waterways and adjoining communities.
By PRNigeria
