The Nigerian Navy says it has seized boats and equipment used by militants during fresh operations in the waterways of Cross River State.
In a statement on Monday, the Navy said the action followed “an earlier onslaught” by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY and Forward Operating Base Ibaka, which led to the destruction of a militant hideout at Dayspring Island.
The Navy said troops also set up a new security outpost at Idung 1 and arrested a suspected collaborator, adding that forces have kept up pressure on militant groups in the area.
During follow-up operations, officers discovered hidden equipment.
The statement said troops uncovered “ten outboard boat engines concealed within adjoining bushes and inside a nearby structure” linked to a suspected militant known as Juju.
It added that “all items were immediately seized and secured.”
In another operation near Akpamfi, the Navy said militants fled when they saw advancing troops.
“On sighting advancing naval personnel, the militants fled, abandoning two fibre boats and one 200-horsepower outboard engine,” the statement said.
The Navy explained that such equipment is key to criminal activity on the waterways.
It said fibre boats and engines “remain critical enablers of their criminal activities.”
According to the statement, the operations have “significantly degraded the operational capability of the militants, restricted their movement, and denied them safe havens.”
The Navy said it “remains resolute in sustaining this pressure” and will continue operations until “all criminal elements are completely flushed out.”
It also urged residents to support security efforts by sharing useful information with authorities.
