Nigerian Navy Dismantles Extortion Network, Frees Bonny Waterway Users

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

The Nigerian Navy says it has disrupted an extortion syndicate operating along the Bonny Creek axis of Rivers State, ending the group’s alleged campaign of intimidation and illegal levies against fishermen, commuters and residents.

According to a statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was carried out on 30 June by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny in collaboration with troops of the Nigerian Army, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected criminals operating from a hideout in Asaramatoru Community.

The Navy said the operation forced the suspects to flee their camp, while troops recovered a 7.62mm empty magazine, the butt of a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), several Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards and other items considered to be of intelligence value.

It said preliminary findings from engagements with members of the community indicated that the criminal group had used the area as a base to attack fishermen and commuters, extort residents and demand a share of proceeds from local market sales.

The Navy added that the operation had restored confidence among residents and disrupted the activities of the criminal network operating within the Bonny Creek corridor.

It also said intelligence obtained during the operation would support follow-up actions to identify, track and dismantle other members of the syndicate.

The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations to secure Nigeria’s waterways and prevent criminal activities, including kidnapping, sea robbery and extortion.