Nigerian Navy Dismantles Militant Stronghold in Cross River, Enforces Maritime Curfew
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on maritime crime, launching a decisive operation that dislodged militant elements and dismantled a key hideout along the Calabar–Oron waterways in Cross River State.
In a statement issued on May 1, 2026, the Navy disclosed that personnel from Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY and the Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA carried out coordinated clearance operations on Dayspring Island following a spike in kidnappings and related criminal activities in the area.
The operation, anchored on the establishment of a forward security outpost at Idung 1, also known as Peacock Crossing, provided troops with a strategic base to dominate the surrounding creeks and waterways. Naval forces reportedly encountered minimal resistance, as suspected militants fled their positions upon the approach of advancing troops.
Maintaining sustained pressure, the Navy, working alongside troops of the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade, secured critical waterways and restricted the movement of criminal elements within the operational zone.
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During follow-up exploitation operations, troops uncovered and destroyed a militant hideout allegedly linked to a notorious suspect identified as “Juju” in the Idung axis. The suspect escaped during the raid, abandoning two boats equipped with outboard engines, which were subsequently seized by security forces. The hideout was demolished to prevent its reuse.
In a related development, naval personnel tracked down and arrested a suspected informant believed to be aiding the militant network. The individual is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation, with plans underway to hand over the suspect to relevant authorities for prosecution.
To consolidate gains and further restrict criminal activity, the Navy has imposed a 13-hour curfew on maritime movement within the affected area, running daily from 5:00 pm to 6:00 am.
The Navy noted that prior to the intervention, militants operated with relative impunity, carrying out kidnappings and extorting local communities. However, the ongoing offensive has significantly disrupted their operations, weakened their logistics, and forced them deeper into the creeks.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Nigerian Navy stated that it will sustain its aggressive posture until all criminal elements are eradicated and the maritime domain is fully secured for legitimate economic activities.
The statement was signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information.