NAVY DISRUPTS SUSPECTED MILITANT RELOCATION, DESTROYS EMERGING CAMP IN RIVERS-BAYELSA CREEKS

In a decisive operation, the Nigerian Navy has uncovered and dismantled a suspected militant staging camp in the Rivers-Bayelsa creek corridor, disrupting what appears to be an attempt by criminal elements to establish a new operational base.

The operation, conducted by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under intensified surveillance in the Soku axis, was triggered by suspicious movements observed during routine patrols. Naval operatives spotted a high-powered speedboat with a 200-horsepower engine carrying six individuals in unconfirmed uniforms navigating from Sangama Community toward Russia Community Creek near the Olowaseri area in Bayelsa State.

According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain AA Folorunsho, the boat’s occupants offloaded three persons in a suspicious manner before retreating into adjoining creeks. This prompted an immediate follow-up patrol that led to the discovery of a concealed hideout believed to serve as a staging camp for hostile activities.

During the raid, troops recovered 50 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition hidden inside a water container, along with other incriminating items including old vehicle batteries, assorted electrical wires, and containers filled with unidentified foul-smelling substances strapped with red bands. Preliminary investigations suggest the materials could be intended for fabricating improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or pipeline vandalism.

The Navy promptly destroyed the emerging camp and associated materials on site to prevent further criminal use, while the ammunition and key exhibits were secured for further investigation. No arrests were reported as the suspects fled upon sighting the naval team.

This latest success forms part of the Navy’s broader Operation DELTA SENTINEL, aimed at curbing oil theft, illegal refining, and militancy across the Niger Delta waterways. The military has vowed to sustain intelligence-driven operations to deny criminals freedom of action in the region’s creeks.

Security analysts commend the proactive approach, noting that such disruptions help safeguard critical oil infrastructure and promote stability in the oil-rich but volatile area. Residents in nearby communities have expressed relief, though they call for continued presence of security forces to deter relocation attempts by militant groups.

The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to collaborating with other security agencies to maintain peace and protect legitimate economic activities in the maritime domain.