The Nigerian Navy has arrested a suspected associate of a wanted militant during ongoing security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating along the Calabar waterways in Cross River State.
The suspect, identified as Ime Edet, popularly known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on May 24 by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory at the recently established security outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the suspect to a wanted militant identified as Simeon, alias Papi, who had allegedly been operating within the Dayspring Island axis.
The Navy said the militant fled the area following sustained security operations by NNS Victory, allegedly leaving behind some operational assets in the custody of the suspect.
Preliminary investigations, according to the Navy, revealed that Edet maintained regular communication with the fugitive militant and allegedly provided information on the movement and deployment of security personnel operating in the area.
The investigation also linked him to the concealment and custody of equipment believed to have been used in support of militant activities along the waterways.
The Navy further disclosed that an analysis of the suspect’s mobile devices, as well as his interrogation, established a longstanding relationship between him and the wanted militant.
According to the statement, investigators also discovered that some of the assets allegedly abandoned by the militant were being used by the suspect for personal business activities.
Following preliminary investigations, Edet was handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“The handover represents another significant outcome of the ongoing security operations initiated by NNS Victory following the establishment of a forward security outpost at Dayspring Island in response to the rising incidence of kidnapping and other criminal activities within the Calabar-Oron waterways,” the statement said.
The Navy noted that sustained intelligence-driven operations and a strengthened security presence in the area have continued to weaken criminal networks, disrupt their support structures, and improve security along the waterways.
It reiterated its commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements and their collaborators until lasting peace and security are restored within the maritime environment.