The Nigerian Navy has formally handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) following a coordinated intelligence-led operation in the waterways of Cross River State. The transfer underscores ongoing security efforts aimed at strengthening surveillance and curbing criminal activity across Nigeria’s coastal and inland water routes.
The suspect, identified as Mr. Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as “Pastor Ime,” was arrested on 24 May 2026 by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory.
The arrest took place during a routine but targeted patrol operation around the Dayspring Island axis, a location within the broader Calabar waterways region that has, in recent years, been identified as a sensitive corridor for maritime monitoring and anti-smuggling activities.
According to security officials familiar with the operation, the arrest followed actionable intelligence suggesting that certain individuals were allegedly providing support or logistical assistance to a wanted militant operating within the coastal and riverine environments of the Niger Delta region. The Navy reportedly acted on this intelligence by deploying surveillance and patrol assets to track movements and intercept suspected collaborators.
During the operation, Mr. Ekiko was taken into custody without resistance.
Preliminary investigations conducted by naval personnel allegedly linked him to communication channels with a fugitive militant suspect believed to be active in the waterways. Authorities further claim that these communications may have involved the sharing of sensitive information relating to naval patrol patterns and movement schedules, though the full extent of his involvement remains under investigation.
Security sources also indicated that materials considered relevant to ongoing militant-related investigations were either found in his possession or connected to his activities. However, officials have emphasized that all allegations are subject to further scrutiny by the appropriate security and judicial authorities.
Following initial questioning and documentation procedures, the Nigerian Navy transferred the suspect to the DSS for more comprehensive interrogation and further investigative action. The DSS is expected to expand the scope of inquiry to determine the suspect’s network, the depth of his alleged involvement, and whether additional individuals are connected to the case.
In an official statement regarding the operation, the Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to maintaining security across the nation’s waterways, particularly in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, where maritime security challenges have historically included militancy, oil theft, illegal refining, piracy, and smuggling activities. The Navy noted that sustained patrols and intelligence-driven operations remain central to its strategy for ensuring safety and stability in maritime domains.
The Calabar–Oron waterways, where the arrest occurred, form part of a crucial maritime corridor in southeastern Nigeria.
The area is frequently monitored due to its economic significance and vulnerability to illicit activities. Security agencies have, over time, increased coordinated operations in the region to deter criminal networks and disrupt activities that threaten national economic interests and local communities dependent on riverine transport and fishing.
Analysts note that the transfer of suspects from the Navy to the DSS is a standard procedure in cases involving alleged links to organized or militant-related activities. The DSS typically assumes responsibility for deeper intelligence gathering, interrogation, and potential prosecution support, especially where national security concerns are implicated.
Meanwhile, residents in surrounding riverine communities have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the increased security presence, while others call for greater transparency and caution in handling arrests to ensure that innocent individuals are not wrongly implicated during broader security sweeps.
The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed that it will continue to collaborate with other security agencies, including the DSS, to ensure that the waterways remain safe for legitimate economic and civilian activities. It also urged members of the public to provide timely intelligence that could assist in preventing criminal operations before they escalate.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities have indicated that further updates will be provided as the DSS progresses with its findings. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
