The Nigerian Navy has intensified raids against militant groups terrorizing Cross River State's waterways. Over the weekend, naval personnel and soldiers from the Army's 13 Brigade stormed a camp on Dayspring Island.
The hideout sat in the Idung axis. Military officials believe a wanted militant leader known as "Juju" controlled the location.
Navy Spokesman Abiodun Folorunsho said the suspect fled when troops arrived. The joint force encountered minimal resistance during the operation.
Two fibre boats equipped with outboard engines were seized. The militants abandoned their camp and vanished into the creeks.
Naval forces then torched the facility to prevent future use. They're determined to dismantle every criminal base on the island.
As part of its security strategy, the Navy imposed a 13-hour daily curfew on waterborne traffic. The restriction runs from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. each day.
This window targets the hours when militants typically strike. Kidnappings, piracy, and extortion operations commonly occur under darkness along the Calabar–Oron routes.
An operational base now stands at Idung 1, also called Peacock Crossing. The outpost enables round-the-clock monitoring and quick-response missions across the island.
A follow-up raid proved equally successful. Intelligence tips led troops to a creek near Akpamfi where more equipment lay hidden.
Militants scattered again as forces approached the location. They left behind two fibre boats and a powerful 200-horsepower outboard engine.
All recovered assets reached the naval security post safely. Officials documented everything for further investigation and action.
Navy leadership stressed that destroying logistics matters most. Fibre boats and high-powered engines are the lifeblood of militant operations on the waterways.
According to Folorunsho, denying these tools severely cripples criminal groups. Without fast boats, militants can't launch attacks or escape pursuit effectively.
The ongoing offensive has already shown measurable results. Militant movement has slowed, safe havens have burned, and criminal coordination is fracturing.
Navy authorities pledged to maintain pressure indefinitely. Continuous patrols and intelligence-driven strikes will continue until all threats vanish.
Security officials assured waterway users that conditions are improving steadily. Legitimate commerce and travel along the maritime corridor should resume with greater safety soon.
Residents expressed cautious optimism about the military's commitment. Local communities hope sustained operations finally break the militants' grip on their waters.
