The Nigerian Navy has arrested three suspected associates of a wanted militant kingpin, Sunday Godlaw, during a raid on a suspected militant camp in Bayelsa.
The suspects were arrested on Aug. 6 by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO at Fununu Community, Brass Local Government Area of the state.
Godlaw, who reportedly escaped during the operation, is allegedly linked to sea robbery, piracy and illegal black sand mining in the area.
The Navy, in a statement issued by its Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, said troops recovered several items from the camp.
The recovered items included a pump-action rifle with two live cartridges, three AK-47 magazines, four walkie-talkies and a ballistic vest.
Others were two camouflage uniforms, mobile phones, a power bank, machetes and a motorcycle.
The Navy said no casualty was recorded during the operation, adding that other members of the group also fled the area.
It said the three suspects and recovered items were handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS), Bayelsa Command, on Aug. 7.
According to the statement, the suspects were handed over for further investigation and necessary action.
The Navy said the operation demonstrated its commitment to dismantling criminal and militant networks operating in the Niger Delta.
It added that the operations were also aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of action and preventing riverine communities from being used as safe havens.
The Navy pledged to sustain operations in collaboration with other security agencies to protect lives and property across the region.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to securing coastal communities and maintaining a safe and secure maritime environment in the Niger Delta.