The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base, Ibaka, Mbo local government area, Akwa Ibom State, has arrested 5 suspects and seized 98 bags of rice from them.
Speaking on Thursday in Ibaka, Commanding Officer, FOB, Captain Peter Yilme, who handed over the suspects and items to the Deputy Superintendent of Nigeria Customs Service, Garuba Hassan, said the suspects were arrested at the Agbani area during routine patrol by a Navy gunboat.
Yilma stated that the continued arrests showed the unrelenting efforts of the smugglers to continue with their illicit trade despite repeated warning.
He added that in the same vein, FOB Ibaka will continue to rid the waterways of all forms of criminal activities so that legitimate businesses may thrive.
“The suspects and contraband were arrested on 22 January 2020 at about 0030 hours at Agbani area during routine patrol by FOB Ibaka gunboat crew.
“The arrest brings to fore the unrelenting drive by the smugglers in continuing their illicit acts. Nevertheless, the base will not relent in ridding the waterways of all forms of criminal activities in order for legitimate economic activities to thrive.
“Smugglers are advised to turn a new leaf and embrace legitimate business activities.
“FOB Ibaka appreciates once again, the provision of necessary logistics to the Base by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas.
“Additionally, the Base would not be achieving its operational mandate if not for the spport and encouragement accorded her by the FOC Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral David Adeniran.” He stated.
Captain Peter Yilme handing over the suspects and seized items to the Nigeria Customs Service
