The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, under the Central Naval Command, has handed over one suspect to the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged illegal possession of HK General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG).
The suspect was also allegedly found with a significant quantity of ammunition.
The Commander of NNS SOROH, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday at Yenagoa.
He said that the NNS SOROH on June 27, conducted a targeted raid on a suspected militant camp located within Peremabiri Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government of Bayelsa.
He said the operation was as a result of credible intelligence and sustained surveillance activities on the said location and its occupants, believed to be involved in illegal activities inimical to national security.
“The operation, executed with precision and professionalism, led to the arrest of one militant, identified as Mr Daniel Damigo.
“The raid also resulted in the recovery of one HK GPMG and a significant quantity of ammunition.
“The swift and decisive action of the Nigerian Navy personnel ensured minimal disruption to the surrounding community and little damage.
“The operation was successful through effective collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and Labrador Security Services.
“The suspect is currently undergoing preliminary interrogation and will be handed over to the relevant prosecuting agencies for further investigation and prosecution,” Akinbami said.
He added that the recovered weapon and ammunition would be subjected to forensic analysis to establish linkages with past criminal incidents.
“This operation aligns with the CNS mission statement of maintaining and equipping a professionally competent and ethical naval force.
“We will continue to leverage on all elements of national power for the effective defence of Nigeria’s maritime area of interest against all forms of threat in fulfillment of national security imperative,” he said.
The commander warned that the Nigerian Navy remains vigilant and resolute in its constitutional mandate against those engaging in militancy, pipeline vandalism, and other criminal activities.
He solicited for the continued cooperation of all law-abiding citizens, urging them to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to appropriate security agencies.
Akinbami said that the security and safety of communities and critical national assets are a collective responsibility, “and together, we can build a safer, more secure and prosperous Nigeria.”
In another development, the Commander said two suspected cultists were arrested with a locally made pistol and some rounds in Yenagoa last week.
They were later handed over to the police anti-cultism task group for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“Furthermore, there was exchange of gunfire between men of NNS SOROH deployed in Akassa on Sunday June 29, with suspected sea-robbers who later abandoned their boat and fled into the creeks due to superior firepower.
“The boat is presently with our forces and will be handled appropriately. Additionally, let me sound a note of warning to all perpetrators of this illegal act.
“Bayelsa will not be a safe haven for them. They should desist from these unscrupulous activities, because the Nigerian Navy, OPDS and other security agencies will not rest on their oars to bring perpetrators to book,” Akinbami said. (NAN)
