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The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services (DSS) in Calabar, Cross River.
This follows a security operation aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating in Calabar waters.
This was disclosed by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, in a statement on Wednesday in Calabar.
He said Ekiko Ime, known as Pastor Ime, was arrested on May 24.
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The suspect was arrested by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY deployed at the newly established security post at Dayspring Island, Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River.
The spokesperson noted that the arrest was made after credible intelligence linked the suspect to a fugitive militant identified as Simeon, alias Papi, who was reportedly operating in the Dayspring Island axis.
“Further intelligence indicated that the militant fled the area following sustained operational pressure exerted by NNS VICTORY and left certain operational assets in the custody of the suspect before he fled,” it said.
He said investigations revealed that the suspect was allegedly in regular communication with the fugitive militant and was involved in providing information regarding the movement and deployment of security personnel operating in the area.
Intelligence findings also linked the suspect to the concealment and storage of equipment believed to have been used to support militant activities in the waters.
“Further exploitation of the suspect’s mobile devices and interrogation proved that he had long-term ties with militants and allegedly provided support over a long period of time.
“Investigations also revealed that the assets left behind by the militants were used by the accused for personal business activities.
“After the initial investigation was completed, the suspect was officially handed over to the Department of State Services for further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with existing laws,” concluded Folorunsho.
