In a proactive move ahead of the off-cycle gubernatorial election on November 10, 2023, the Nigerian Navy’s Naval Ship, NNS Soroh, executed a strategic raid on a suspected sea robbers’ hideout within its Area of Operation.
The operation, designed to neutralize illegal weapons and maintain security during the electoral process, unfolded at 2 am.
Swift Response to Credible Intel
Acting on credible information, the naval base swiftly mobilized its anti-sea robbery patrol team from the Naval Security Station (NSS 030) situated in Foropa community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Commodore Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, in a statement, detailed the successful operation.
Chase and Recovery Operation
Upon sighting the Nigerian Navy Patrol team gunboat, the suspected sea robbers dispersed into the surrounding bushes.
The NNS Soroh special anti-sea robbery team conducted a meticulous cordon and search operation, resulting in the recovery of a cache of illegal weaponry.
The seized items included one general purpose machine gun (GPMG) with 100 links, 2 AK 47 rifles, one locally made long gun, 2 Tavor magazines, 11 rounds of 7.62 (NATO), and 2 Cartridge rounds of a pump-action gun.
Assorted Recovered Items
Additionally, the operation yielded the retrieval of 2 200HP Yamaha Engines, 5 Baofeng Radios, a Small Techno Android phone, one GPS phone, 3x small Techno phones, and assorted camouflage uniforms.
The swift deactivation of the criminals’ camp was executed to deny them any shelter within the vicinity.
Commitment to Maritime Security
The success of the raid operation underscored the dedication and resilience of NNS Soroh in fulfilling its duty.
The statement highlighted the commitment of the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to continue such sting operations.
These efforts aim to counter and apprehend criminals seeking to undermine the democratic process, disrupt public peace, or compromise maritime security during and after the off-cycle election period.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Vigilance
The statement emphasized the ongoing commitment of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh, stationed at Naval Base Yenagoa, to eradicate criminal activities, unlawful practices, and the possession of illegal weapons within its operational zone.
NNS Soroh will persist in conducting operations and vigilant patrols to address challenges related to sea robbery, piracy, and crude oil theft (COT) in Nigeria’s maritime environment.
Preserving Maritime Sanctity
The Naval Base Yenagoa has maintained a continuous presence at sea and deployed surveillance infrastructure to monitor activities within its waters.
This approach is crucial for preserving the sanctity of Nigeria’s maritime domain, promoting legitimate business activities by law-abiding citizens, and contributing to national economic development and prosperity.