Navy’s hands above 3 suspects for DSS for ownership of illegal weapons in Bayelsa

The Nigerian Navy has handed over three suspects to the State Service Department (DSS) to ownership of firearms illegally.

The suspects were also found acting as an illegal security escort on the Motor Motorcycle Anglement (MFT) VIII by people from the Nigerian Navy (NNS) Soroh operating under the Commander of the Middle Navy.

NNS Soroh Commander, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, told reporters on Friday that the arrest followed the hostel operation conducted on March 9 by the Foromoso Basis of Maju Operation, the NNS Soroh sub-unit.

He said: “Acting based on credible intelligence, the Navy personnel intercepted the trawl, who reportedly conveyed armed people who had opened fire to intimidate local fishermen in Bayelsa waters.”

Akinbami, who spoke through NNS Soroh executive officials, Navy Captain Jerry Ayim-Odu, said the dormitory team found a G3 assault rifle, pump action rifle, and several ammunition rounds during the operation.

“The initial investigation revealed that the ship captain had illegally rented two members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) as armed escort, despite the lack of licenses to carry or operate firearms.

“The ship, his crew, and the two OPC members were arrested because of the ownership of firearms illegally and because they were involved in an invalid security department.

“In line with the direction of the Navy headquarters, the suspects have been handed over to DSS for further investigation and the possibility of prosecution,” added the commander.

He warned sailors not to be involved in criminal acts that could threaten the safety and security of Nigeria’s maritime domain.

Join the conversation

Opinion

Supports Nigeria’s ripples, resistant Journalism Solutions

A balanced and fearful journalism that is driven by data comes with enormous financial costs.

As a media platform, we ask for leadership accountability and will not trade the right to suppress freedom and freedom of speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and ready to uphold journalism solutions, friendly Nigerian ripples cause.

Your support will help ensure that residents and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for community development.

Donation now