By Miriam Humbe
The Nigerian Navy has recorded another operational success in its sustained campaign against militancy and maritime crime with the disruption of an emerging militant camp in the Soku axis of Rivers State.
Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the
Director Naval Information,
Nigerian Navy disclosed this in a statement signed on Friday.
Acting on credible intelligence, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH swiftly deployed to a suspected militant hideout following reports that a criminal group linked to a notorious militant network had relocated from the Nembe axis to establish a new operational base within the Soku general area.
On arrival, the patrol team observed clear signs of recent human activity consistent with efforts to establish a new camp.
A systematic search of the location led to the recovery of communication devices, accessories, approximately 150 metres of 4-inch industrial hose suspected to be intended for illegal bunkering activities, and other items of operational interest.
The camp was subsequently destroyed to prevent its future use for criminal activities.
Preliminary intelligence indicates that the group is suspected to be involved in kidnapping, pipeline vandalism, sea robbery, and other maritime crimes, highlighting the strategic importance of the operation in denying criminal elements the opportunity to re-establish operational footholds within the area._
The operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s proactive intelligence-led approach to combating maritime insecurity by disrupting criminal infrastructure before it becomes operational, while further degrading the capabilities of militant groups operating within the Niger Delta.
The Nigerian Navy remains committed to sustaining offensive operations, strengthening maritime domain awareness, and collaborating with other security agencies and host communities to eliminate criminal networks and safeguard Nigeria’s maritime environment.
