The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, operating under the Central Naval Command, has handed over three suspects to the Department of State Services (DSS) in Bayelsa State for alleged illegal possession of firearms and unauthorized armed escort operations at sea.
The suspects were arrested on March 9, 2025, following a tip-off received by personnel of the Forward Operating Base FORMOSO, a sub-unit of NNS SOROH. Acting on credible intelligence, naval operatives intercepted the Motor Fishing Trawler MFT Olokun Eight suspected of transporting armed men posing as escorts.
Speaking during the parade of the suspects in Yenagoa, Commander of NNS SOROH, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, represented by Executive Officer Navy Captain Jerry Ayim-Odu, revealed that the operation uncovered one G3 assault rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and several rounds of ammunition.
According to Commodore Akinbami, preliminary investigations indicated that the captain of the vessel had illicitly hired members of the Odua Peoples’ Congress (OPC) to provide unauthorized armed escort services, an act prohibited under Nigerian maritime law.
“The OPC members had no license to carry or operate firearms. As a result, the vessel’s captain, crew, and the two armed OPC escorts were apprehended for illegal possession of firearms and unauthorized security operations on Nigerian waters,” he stated.
The naval commander issued a stern warning to seafarers, advising them against engaging in criminal activities that jeopardize maritime safety and security.
“The Nigerian Navy will not tolerate illegal possession of firearms or unauthorized use of armed escorts. We urge all individuals and operators within our maritime domain to strictly adhere to the law and pursue legitimate means of ensuring their security,” Commodore Akinbami emphasized.
In his defense, the captain of MFT Olokun Eight, Mr. Elijah Samuel, claimed ignorance about the illegal status of the firearms, stating that he employed the armed men to protect his vessel from recurring pirate attacks. He recounted past harrowing experiences at sea, including two kidnappings and the loss of cargo to criminal gangs.
The suspects and the recovered arms have been transferred to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution.
