The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka, located in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, reported that their team had apprehended 14 suspects for various crimes during this time.
Commanding Officer Capt. Uche Aneke shared this information with journalists, stating that the suspects were arrested for offenses such as smuggling, oil theft, cultism, economic sabotage, sea robbery, and other criminal activities in the joint operations area (JOA).
Aneke emphasized that the Nigerian Navy has a strict policy against maritime crimes and economic sabotage in Nigeria’s waterways. He mentioned that the suspects have been handed over to other security agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
He also highlighted that the arrests and seizures were not just random successes but were achieved through strategic operations and tactical execution. Aneke assured that the overall security situation in the operational area has been relatively peaceful.
Aneke mentioned that the Base has successfully reduced criminal activities to a minimum through intensive operations with security stakeholders in the joint operations area over the years.
The Commander explained that Operation Delta Sanity, of which FOB Ibaka is a part, has been strengthened by the determination of FOB Ibaka and other bases involved in the operations.
He also revealed that the base has hired 35 civilian staff who are not only paid but also provided with three meals a day to demonstrate their commitment to intelligence duties and maintain a good relationship with the host communities.
He praised the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for providing the necessary resources and moral support to the Nigerian Navy for safer waterways.
FOB Ibaka covers Nigeria’s Eastern flanks, including the sea approaches from Calabar to the new international maritime boundaries between Nigeria and the Republic of Cameroon. This area also includes land masses in Mbo, Udung Uko, and Oron LGAs of Akwa Ibom.
