Navy storms Bayelsa militant camp, arrests 3, recovers rifle, AK-47 magazines

Raid on Fununu Community

The Nigerian Navy has conducted a successful raid on a suspected militant camp in Fununu Community, located in the Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The operation, carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso on August 6, 2026, targeted the criminal network of a wanted kingpin known as Sunday Godlaw.

While Godlaw and several gang members managed to flee the area during the raid, three of his suspected associates were apprehended by the naval forces. The Navy confirmed that no casualties were recorded during the encounter, which was aimed at neutralizing threats to the riverine communities in the region.

Recovery of Arms and Tactical Gear

Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, revealed the details of the operation in a formal statement, noting that the camp served as a hub for various criminal activities. Godlaw and his associates are allegedly linked to sea robbery, piracy, and illegal black sand mining in the area.

A thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of lethal weapons and tactical equipment used by the group. Items seized included a pump-action rifle with two live cartridges, three AK-47 magazines, four walkie-talkies, a ballistic vest, and two camouflage uniforms. Other recovered items included mobile phones, a power bank, machetes, and a motorcycle.

A search of the camp led to the recovery of a pump-action rifle with two live cartridges, three AK-47 magazines, four walkie-talkies, a ballistic vest, two camouflage uniforms, mobile phones, a power bank, machetes and a motorcycle.

— Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, Nigerian Navy

Handover to DSS and Future Operations

Following the raid, the three arrested suspects and the recovered cache of items were handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS), Bayelsa State Command, on August 7, 2026. The handover is intended to facilitate further investigation and legal action against the group members.

The Nigerian Navy emphasized that this operation demonstrates its resolve to deny criminal and militant groups the opportunity to use riverine communities as safe havens. The military intends to maintain its presence in the Niger Delta to ensure long-term stability and economic security.

The Nigerian Navy will continue to sustain operations in collaboration with relevant security agencies to protect lives and property, secure coastal communities and maintain a safe and secure maritime environment across the Niger Delta.

— Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, Nigerian Navy