During subsequent searches in the Calabar waterways, the Nigerian Navy seized boats and outboard engines as part of its increased operations against terrorists and kidnappers in Cross River State.
Journalists in Abuja received a statement about the operation from Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information.
The statement claims that the most recent operation took place at Dayspring Island, where navy forces had previously set up a forward security outpost to keep an eye on the area and destroyed a militant hideaway.
Ten outboard boat engines were found as a result of the forces’ persistent pressure on known criminal enclaves in the waterways, according to Folorunsho.
He clarified that the engines were hidden inside a building connected to a suspected terrorist and in surrounding bushes.
“The troops seized and secured all items,” he stated.
The recovery, according to the Navy, is a component of continuous efforts to reduce the mobility and operational capability of criminal organizations that operate along the waterways.
According to Folorunsho, naval personnel moved into a creek close to Akpamfi in a linked operation based on new information.
He claimed that suspected militants were forced to leave their hiding place when forces moved into the area.
He claims that the troops found a 200-horsepower outboard engine and two fiber boats that the suspects had abandoned.
According to the navy, the boats and engines were seized because they were essential to the activities of kidnappers and terrorists in riverine settlements.
According to Folorunsho, the actions were intended to destroy the militant organizations’ logistical network that allowed them to travel through the waterways.
According to him, criminals engaged in kidnapping, assaults, and other illicit operations in the region now rely heavily on boats and outboard engines.
The navy spokesperson stated that the insurgents’ operational capability has been severely weakened by the ongoing offensive.
He claimed that the operations had denied the suspects safe havens in the creeks, interfered with their supply routes, and limited their mobility.
The Nigerian Navy reiterated that it would continue operations until criminal elements were removed from the waterways.
According to Folorunsho, the service would keep the Calabar waterways safe so that locals, traders, fisherman, and other lawful users of the riverine pathways can carry out their daily business without worry.
In an effort to bring peace and security back to impacted areas in Cross River State, he continued, the navy will continue to exert pressure on known criminal hideouts.
