The Nigerian Navy has stepped up its offensive against militants and kidnappers in Cross River State, recovering boats and outboard engines in a series of targeted operations across the Calabar waterways.
According to a statement issued in Abuja on Monday by the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, the latest seizures followed sustained pressure on criminal enclaves in the region.
Folorunsho disclosed that naval troops carried out follow-up operations at Dayspring Island, where a militant hideout had earlier been dismantled and a forward operational base established. During the sweep, troops discovered 10 outboard boat engines hidden in surrounding bushes and inside a structure linked to a suspected militant.
“All items were seized and secured by the troops,” he said.
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In a related operation driven by fresh intelligence, naval personnel advanced into a creek near Akpamfi, prompting suspected militants to flee. The suspects reportedly abandoned two fibre boats and a 200-horsepower outboard engine, all of which were recovered by troops.
The Navy explained that the operations are part of a broader strategy to cripple militants’ logistics, noting that boats and engines are critical tools for movement and operations on waterways.
Folorunsho added that the sustained offensive has significantly weakened the operational capacity of the groups, limiting their mobility and stripping them of safe havens.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to continue the crackdown until all criminal elements are eliminated and the waterways are fully secured for lawful economic activities.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.