The Nigerian Navy (NN) has reported it has arrested two suspects in a raid on pirate and kidnapper hideout at the Fununu community in Brass Local Government Area, a known pirate stronghold in Bayelsa State.
The operation, conducted during the weekend, was part of the ongoing Operation DELTA SANITY II, launched on December 30, 2024, by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, in Rivers State.
According to a statement sent to Africa Health Report, AHR by the Director of Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, on Tuesday, the Navy personnel encountered fierce resistance from the criminals, who engaged in a gun battle for over 30 minutes. Adding, the suspects were overpowered by the Navy’s superior firepower, resulting in the arrest of one male and one female suspect.
Several illegal items were seized during the raid, including an AK-56 assault rifle, five pump-action guns, and various ammunition. The operation also recovered multiple firearms and personal items, such as a national ID card, two smartphones, and a sum of N11,500.
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff, emphasized that the Navy remains committed to eradicating criminal activities in Nigeria’s maritime domain. “We will continue to deploy all necessary resources to ensure the safety and security of our waters,” Ogalla stated.
