NAVY ARRESTS 12 OVER ILLEGAL RECRUITMENT

The Nigerian Navy has arrested 12 people allegedly involved in an unauthorised recruitment and training scheme in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The suspects were apprehended after naval authorities uncovered the operation, which was being conducted outside the framework of recognised military recruitment procedures.

The Navy said the activities were illegal and not connected to its official recruitment process. The development highlights concerns over individuals or groups attempting to mislead members of the public through unauthorised recruitment exercises.

The arrests followed an operation by naval personnel who moved to stop the alleged training programme and take those involved into custody.

Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the scheme, including how participants were recruited and whether any money was collected from members of the public.

The Navy has repeatedly advised Nigerians to rely on official channels for information about military recruitment and to be cautious of individuals claiming to represent the armed forces without proper authorisation.

The 12 suspects are expected to assist investigators as inquiries continue into the illegal recruitment and training activities.

The authorities said appropriate action would be taken based on the outcome of the investigation and in line with existing laws.