By Helen Udo.
The Nigerian Navy has handed over a suspected militant collaborator, Mr. Ime Edet Ekiko, popularly known as Pastor Ime, to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The suspect was arrested on 24 May 2026 by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY stationed at the newly established security outpost on Dayspring Island in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.
In a statement signed by Abiodun Folorunsho,Navy Captain,Director Naval Information Nigerian Navy disclosed that,
“Intelligence reports revealed that the militant fled the area following sustained security pressure mounted by NNS VICTORY and reportedly left some operational assets in the custody of the suspect, the statement said.
Investigations showed that Pastor Ime allegedly maintained regular communication with the fugitive militant and supplied information regarding the movement and deployment of security personnel in the area.
Further findings linked the suspect to the concealment and safekeeping of equipment believed to have supported militant activities within the Calabar waterways.
Exploitation of the suspect’s mobile devices and subsequent interrogation reportedly established a longstanding relationship between him and the wanted militant, indicating prolonged support for criminal operations.
Investigators also discovered that the suspect had allegedly been using assets abandoned by the militant for personal business activities after the fugitive fled the area.
Following preliminary investigations, the Nigerian Navy formally transferred the suspect to the DSS to continue investigations and initiate legal proceedings where necessary.
The Navy described the handover as a major success in ongoing security operations within the Calabar,Oron waterways, stressing that intelligence driven operations and persistent military presence have continued to disrupt criminal networks, weaken militant support structures, and improve maritime security in the region.
