Nigerian Navy hands over another suspected militant collaborator to DSS in Cross River

The Nigerian Navy has reported another major success in its campaign against militancy and crime along the Calabar waterways, following the transfer of a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) Calabar Command.

A statement signed by Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, announced that the suspect, Mr. Ubong Clement, was apprehended by personnel of the Nigerian Navy ship NNS Victory while it was stationed at the Forward Security Outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Cross River State.

The arrest is part of a sustained, intelligence‑driven effort to dismantle criminal networks and their support structures in the region.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly maintained regular contact with militants operating along the Dayspring Island axis and participated in activities that undermined ongoing security operations. Intelligence also linked him to a well‑known militant, Steven Joseph, alias “Juju,” who has been involved in criminal activities in the waterways.

Further findings indicated that the suspect acted as a conduit for disposing goods stolen from market boats intercepted by militants in the area. Proceeds from the sale of these items were reportedly remitted to the militant network, thereby providing financial and logistical support for their operations.

After completing preliminary investigations, the navy handed the suspect over to the Department of State Services for further investigation and potential prosecution in accordance with existing laws.

The statement added, “The handover underscores the Nigerian Navy’s determination to target not only the criminal elements directly involved in militancy but also the support networks that sustain their activities.”

“By disrupting these local facilitators, security forces continue to degrade the operational capability of criminal groups operating within the maritime environment,” the navy said.

The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence‑led operations, community engagement, and targeted security actions to ensure lasting peace and security within the Calabar waterways and surrounding communities.