The Department of State Services (DSS) has received a suspected militant collaborator from the Nigerian Navy following intensified security operations aimed at curbing criminal activities along the Calabar waterways, according to a statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information.
The suspect, Mr. Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as “Pastor Ime,” was arrested on 24 May 2026 by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY deployed at a newly established security outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.
According to a statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the suspect to a wanted militant identified as “Simeon,” also known as “Papi,” who had been operating within the Dayspring Island axis before fleeing under sustained operational pressure mounted by naval forces.
Preliminary investigations by the Navy indicated that the suspect allegedly maintained communication with the fleeing militant and provided information on the movement and deployment of security personnel in the area. Authorities also claimed he was in possession of equipment linked to militant activities abandoned by the suspect.
Further findings from interrogation and analysis of mobile devices reportedly revealed a long-standing relationship between the suspect and the militant, as well as the alleged use of recovered assets for personal business activities.
Following the completion of preliminary investigations, the suspect was transferred to the Department of State Services for further interrogation and possible prosecution in line with extant laws.
The Navy said the operation form part of ongoing intelligence-driven efforts to strengthen maritime security in the Calabar-Oron waterways, following the establishment of a forward operating base in response to rising incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities.
It added that sustained patrols and surveillance have continued to disrupt criminal networks and reduce their operational capabilities across the waterways, while reaffirming commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements until lasting security is achieved.
