By Miriam Humbe
The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
Humsi Media Online gathered that the Navy has intensified its crackdown on criminal networks operating along the nation’s waterways
Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho said the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the suspect to a wanted militant identified as Simeon, also known as Papi.
The suspect, Mr. Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on May 24, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY during security operations on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.
According to the Navy, the fugitive militant had been operating within the Dayspring Island axis but fled the area following sustained military pressure mounted by NNS VICTORY.
Intelligence reports indicated that before escaping, the militant allegedly left behind operational assets in the custody of the suspect.
The Navy stated that subsequent investigations revealed that Pastor Ime allegedly maintained regular communication with the wanted militant and provided information regarding the movement and deployment of security personnel in the area.
Investigators also reportedly uncovered evidence linking the suspect to the concealment and custody of equipment believed to have been used in support of militant activities along the Calabar waterways.
Further examination of the suspect’s mobile devices and interrogation allegedly established a longstanding relationship between him and the fugitive militant.
The investigations further indicated that the suspect had provided support to the militant over an extended period and was using some of the assets abandoned by the fugitive for personal business activities.
Following the completion of preliminary investigations, the Nigerian Navy formally transferred the suspect to the DSS for further action in accordance with existing laws.
The Navy described the arrest and handover as a significant breakthrough in ongoing security operations launched after the establishment of a forward security outpost on Dayspring Island.
The outpost was created in response to increasing incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities within the Calabar-Oron waterways.
According to the statement, sustained intelligence-driven operations and a reinforced security presence in the area have continued to weaken criminal networks, disrupt their support structures and improve safety across the waterways.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements and their collaborators, stressing that efforts would continue until lasting security is restored and legitimate economic activities can flourish within the maritime environment.
