Navy, Security Agencies Arrest 12 Over Illegal Recruitment Training In Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Navy says a joint security team has arrested 12 people over an illegal recruitment and training scheme in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The Navy said the operation was carried out on August 31 by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship Jubilee, troops from 2 Brigade/Operation Thunder and 6 Battalion, and officers from the Akwa Ibom police command’s Violent Crime Response Unit.

According to the Navy, those arrested included six suspected organisers or officials, five recruits or trainees and one cadet of the Merchant Seaman Academy.

The raid followed intelligence about a group presenting itself as a Nigeria Coast Guard Academy at Uwa West in Essien Udim.

Navy spokesperson Abiodun Folorunsho said the team recovered several items from the premises, including two motorcycles, training uniforms, identification cards, flags and documents linked to the alleged operation.

The Navy said the suspects and recovered items had been handed over for further investigation.

Sources: Punch, Guardian, Voice of Nigeria