Navy, Sister Agencies Bust Illegal Recruitment Scheme, Arrest 12 in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, has dismantled an alleged illegal recruitment and training scheme operating in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The operation, conducted on August 31, 2026, followed credible intelligence on the activities of a purported Nigeria Coast Guard Academy at Uwa West, Essien Udim.

Personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) JUBILEE, working alongside troops of Headquarters 2 Brigade/Operation THUNDER, 6 Battalion Nigerian Army and operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, raided the Merchant Seaman Academy, allegedly being used as a facility for the unauthorised recruitment and training of persons presented as provisional cadets of the purported organisation.

The Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun FOLORUNSHO, disclosed this in a statement, saying preliminary findings showed that the recruitment and training activities were not authorised or recognised under applicable law.

According to him, the development raised concerns that unsuspecting Nigerians could be lured into the scheme through false representations, particularly as many young Nigerians seek opportunities in the maritime and security sectors.

The operation led to the arrest of 12 persons, comprising six suspected organisers or officials, five recruits or trainees and one cadet of the Merchant Seaman Academy.

The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Violent Crime Response Unit of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for further investigation and possible legal action.

The Navy said the operation underscored its proactive approach to identifying and disrupting emerging security threats before they develop into wider public-safety challenges.

It also noted that the intervention had helped to dismantle a structure allegedly exploiting the legitimate aspirations of Nigerians seeking careers in the maritime and security sectors.

The Navy urged members of the public to exercise caution when responding to recruitment advertisements or offers from purported security, maritime or military organisations, especially where such organisations are unable to demonstrate appropriate legal recognition or regulatory approval.

It advised prospective applicants to verify the authenticity of organisations and recruitment exercises through appropriate government channels before making payments or providing personal information.

The Navy further stressed that the successful operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration in protecting citizens from criminal exploitation.

It reaffirmed its commitment to working with sister security agencies to safeguard lives and property, disrupt criminal enterprises and prevent unscrupulous individuals from exploiting unsuspecting members of the public.