Nigerian Navy uncovers ammunition, explosive-making materials in Rivers-Bayelsa creek

The Nigerian Navy has reported the discovery of a suspected staging camp, along with the recovery of ammunition and materials for making explosives, in the creek areas of Rivers and Bayelsa.

According to the Navy, this suspected staging camp is believed to be connected to hostile activities occurring within the Rivers and Bayelsa creek corridor, which has seen increased surveillance and patrols recently.

A statement issued by Abiodun Folorunsho, the Naval Director of Information, indicated that the discovery was made by personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS SOROH, who were deployed in the Soku area.

He said the operation was prompted by the suspicious movements of individuals aboard a high-powered speedboat, which caught the attention of naval personnel engaged in routine security operations in the waterways.

Folorunsho noted that the boat, equipped with a 200-horsepower engine, was first seen transporting six individuals dressed in unverified uniforms as it travelled from Sangama Community towards the Russia Community Creek, which borders the Olowaseri area of Bayelsa State.

He further explained that the individuals were later seen disembarking three of their companions in a manner deemed suspicious before the boat retreated into the nearby creeks.

He added, “The unusual movement pattern necessitated the deployment of a patrol team to further investigate the suspicious activity.”

The statement continued, “Subsequent exploration of the location resulted in the identification of a suspected hideout and staging camp hidden within the creek. During this operation, naval personnel recovered 50 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition concealed within a water container, along with other items believed to support hostile and illegal activities in the region.

“Other materials retrieved from the site included old vehicle batteries, various electrical wires, and containers filled with unidentified foul-smelling substances adorned with red straps. Preliminary evaluations suggest that some of the recovered items may be linked to efforts to create improvised explosive devices or to facilitate acts of pipeline vandalism and sabotage in the area.

“The site and associated materials were subsequently destroyed to prevent further criminal use, while the recovered ammunition and selected items remain in custody for further investigation.”