Navy Hands Over Suspected Militant Collaborator to DSS in Calabar
The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) in Calabar, Cross River State, as part of intensified security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within the Calabar waterways.
The suspect, identified as Mr Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on May 24, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY deployed at the recently established security outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of the state.
According to the Nigerian Navy, the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the suspect to a wanted militant identified simply as Simeon, alias Papi, who was reportedly operating within the Dayspring Island axis.
The Navy disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the militant fled the area following sustained operational pressure mounted by NNS VICTORY, allegedly abandoning some operational assets in the custody of the suspect before escaping.
In a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho today, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly maintained regular communication with the fugitive militant and provided information on the movement and deployment of security personnel operating in the area.
The Navy further stated that intelligence findings linked the suspect to the concealment and custody of equipment allegedly used to support militant activities within the waterways.
“Further exploitation of the suspect’s mobile devices and interrogation established that he had maintained a longstanding relationship with the militant and had allegedly provided support over an extended period,” the statement said.
The Navy also alleged that investigations showed the suspect was using assets abandoned by the militant for personal business activities.
Following the completion of preliminary investigations, the suspect was formally handed over to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution in line with extant laws.
The Nigerian Navy said the arrest marked another breakthrough in ongoing operations launched by NNS VICTORY after the establishment of a forward operational outpost at Dayspring Island to tackle rising cases of kidnapping and other criminal activities along the Calabar-Oron waterways.
The Service noted that sustained intelligence-driven operations and increased operational presence in the area had continued to weaken criminal networks, disrupt support systems, and improve security within the waterways.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and their collaborators to ensure lasting security and enable legitimate economic activities to thrive in the maritime environment.
By TimesNG