In a significant security operation, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny apprehended a suspect in possession of an array of dangerous weaponry on October 23, 2024. Acting on credible intelligence, the operation took place in the Eleme-Ifoko Community, located within the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The operation yielded a substantial cache of firearms, including one AK-47 rifle, three AK-47 magazines, and thirty-six rounds of 7.62mm x 39mm ammunition. Additionally, the troops seized three smoke grenade launchers and a locally made rifle, underscoring the ongoing threat posed by illegal arms in the region.
According to a statement released on the Nigerian Navy’s verified Facebook page, the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing a thorough investigation. The statement emphasized the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to maintaining peace and security in the Niger Delta region, where illicit arms trade and associated violence have been persistent challenges.
Residents of Eleme-Ifoko Community expressed relief at the swift action taken by the Navy, highlighting their concerns over security in the area. One local leader, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “This is a positive step towards ensuring our safety. We hope the authorities will continue to monitor and address such threats in our community.”
It is worth noting that the operation is part of a broader initiative by the Nigerian Navy to combat illegal arms proliferation and enhance the security landscape in the Niger Delta. In recent years, the region has experienced an uptick in violent crime, often linked to the activities of armed groups and militias.
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The Navy urged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between security forces and local populations in the fight against crime.
It bears mentioning however that as investigations continue, the apprehended suspect remains in custody, and further details about potential connections to larger networks of illegal arms trade are expected to emerge. The Nigerian Navy’s proactive measures serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by security agencies in safeguarding the region and maintaining peace for its residents.
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