Navy Foils Illegal Recruitment Scheme in Akwa Ibom

On August 31, 2026, the Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with Headquarters 2 Brigade/Operation THUNDER, 6 Battalion Nigerian Army, and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, conducted an operation in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. This operation resulted in the arrest of 12 individuals, including six suspected organisers/officials, five recruits or trainees, and one cadet from the Merchant Seaman Academy.

The raid was prompted by credible intelligence regarding a purported Nigeria Coast Guard Academy operating at Uwa West, Essien Udim. The Navy's statement, signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, indicated that the recruitment and training activities were unauthorized and posed a risk of defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.

The arrested individuals were handed over to the VCRU for further investigation and legal action, underscoring the Navy's proactive approach to addressing emerging security threats.