Navy hands over suspected militant collaborator to DSS in Cross River waterways crackdown

The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services, DSS, in Calabar, marking another breakthrough in ongoing operations to dismantle criminal networks along the Cross River waterways.

Personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS VICTORY, arrested the suspect, Mr Ubong Clement, at the Forward Security Outpost on Dayspring Island, Akpabuyo Local Government Area.

The arrest, announced on June 11, 2026, was part of intelligence-driven operations targeting militancy and maritime crime in the Calabar axis.

—Suspect linked to militant leader “Juju”—

Preliminary investigations by the Navy established that Clement allegedly maintained regular contact with militant groups operating around Dayspring Island. Intelligence reports also linked him to Steven Joseph, alias “Juju,” a notorious militant leader associated with attacks and criminal activities within the waterways.

Further findings revealed Clement’s role as a conduit for stolen goods. He allegedly disposed of items looted from market boats intercepted by militants and remitted proceeds to the militant network, providing financial and logistical support for their operations.

—Handover to DSS for prosecution—

After concluding preliminary investigations, the Navy transferred Clement to the DSS Calabar Command for further interrogation and possible prosecution under extant laws.

The handover underscores the military’s shift toward targeting not just armed militants, but also the local facilitators who sustain their activities.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, signed the press statement confirming the development.

He said the operation reflects the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to degrade criminal networks by cutting off their supply and funding channels.

*Operations deepen in Calabar waterways*
The Navy said the arrest forms part of sustained, intelligence-led operations and community engagement aimed at restoring lasting peace in the Calabar waterways and adjoining communities.

Security forces have intensified patrols and surveillance around Akpabuyo and Dayspring Island in recent months following repeated reports of attacks on market boats and coastal communities.

Authorities say disrupting local collaborators like Clement is critical to reducing militancy, as their activities directly fund weapons, logistics and recruitment for armed groups operating in the maritime environment.