The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH has apprehended a suspected militant in possession of a high-caliber HK General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and a large cache of ammunition during a targeted operation in Peremabiri, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The suspect, identified as Daniel Damigo, was arrested following an intelligence-led raid conducted with precision and minimal disruption to the host community. He has since been handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation and prosecution.

Speaking on the operation, the Commander of NNS SOROH, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, credited the success to sustained surveillance and credible intelligence.

“This operation was carried out with professionalism and accuracy, leading to the arrest of Mr. Daniel Damigo and the recovery of one HK GPMG along with a substantial amount of ammunition,” Akinbami stated.

He noted that the swift action of naval personnel prevented any collateral damage and maintained peace in the area. The Commander also acknowledged the support of Labrador Security Services, whose collaboration contributed significantly to the operation’s success.

Akinbami revealed that the recovered arms and ammunition would undergo forensic analysis to determine any links to previous criminal activities.

“This effort is in line with the Chief of Naval Staff’s vision of building a professional, capable, and ethical naval force,” he added.

Issuing a stern warning to criminals involved in militancy, sea robbery, and pipeline vandalism, the Commander said Bayelsa would not serve as a refuge for lawbreakers.

“Those involved in these criminal activities should take note: Bayelsa State will not be a safe haven. The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) and other security agencies, remains committed to bringing offenders to justice,” he warned.

In a related operation, Commodore Akinbami disclosed that two suspected cultists were recently arrested in Yenagoa. The suspects were found with a locally fabricated pistol and live ammunition and have been transferred to the police anti-cultism unit for further investigation.

He further confirmed a separate incident on Sunday, June 29, where naval personnel engaged in a shootout with suspected sea robbers in the Akassa area. The confrontation forced the criminals to abandon their boat and flee. The boat was later recovered and is now in navy custody.

Akinbami urged the public to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity, emphasizing that safeguarding communities and national assets is a shared responsibility.

“Security is a collective duty. Together, we can foster a safer, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria,” he concluded.