The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its efforts to curb militancy and criminal activities in the Niger Delta, following a raid on a suspected militant camp in Fununu Community, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO conducted the operation on August 6, 2026, based on credible intelligence linking the camp to attacks on communities around Formosa Island and other suspected criminal activities.
The operation, led by the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Success Chukwu, resulted in the arrest of three suspected associates of a wanted militant kingpin, Sunday Godlaw. The suspects were identified as 58 year old Egoibiye Warri, 65 year old Jacob Jugbu and 19 year old John Ibogomo.
Godlaw is alleged to have been involved in criminal activities affecting communities in the area, including illegal black sand mining, sea robbery and piracy. He reportedly escaped from the camp during the operation alongside other suspected associates.
A search of the raided camp led to the recovery of a pump action rifle with two live cartridges, three AK 47 magazines, four walkie talkies, a ballistic vest and two camouflage uniforms.
Other items recovered included mobile phones, a power bank, machetes and a motorcycle. The Navy said the operation was conducted without casualties.
The Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Captain SK Haruna, commended the troops for what he described as a successful operation marked by professionalism, courage and operational discipline.
The three suspects and recovered items were handed over to the Bayelsa State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS) on August 7 for further investigation and necessary action.
The Navy said the raid demonstrated its renewed determination to dismantle criminal networks and improve security along vulnerable communities and waterways in the Niger Delta.