By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with other security agencies, has busted an alleged illegal recruitment and training scheme operating under the guise of a purported Nigeria Coast Guard Academy in Akwa Ibom State.
The operation, which led to the arrest of 12 persons, was carried out on Monday at Uwa West in Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state following credible intelligence on the activities of the organisation.
The suspects comprised alleged organisers and officials of the scheme, recruits or trainees and a cadet of the Merchant Seaman Academy, which was allegedly being used as a venue for the unauthorised recruitment and training.
According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was conducted by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship JUBILEE in collaboration with Headquarters 2 Brigade/Operation THUNDER, 6 Battalion Nigerian Army and operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command.
The joint security team raided the Merchant Seaman Academy after receiving intelligence about the activities of the purported Coast Guard organisation.
Preliminary findings, the Navy said, indicated that the recruitment and training activities were not authorised or recognised under applicable law.
The development, according to the Navy, raised concerns that unsuspecting members of the public could be deceived into joining the scheme through false representations.
The arrested persons have been handed over to the Violent Crime Response Unit of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Navy said the operation underscored its proactive approach to identifying emerging security threats before they develop into wider public-safety challenges.
It added that the intervention had also disrupted a structure allegedly exploiting the legitimate aspirations of Nigerians seeking careers in the maritime and security sectors.
The Navy warned members of the public to exercise caution when responding to recruitment advertisements or offers from purported security, maritime or military organisations, particularly where the organisations cannot demonstrate appropriate legal recognition or regulatory approval.
Prospective applicants were advised to verify the authenticity of organisations and recruitment exercises through relevant government channels before parting with money or providing personal information.
The Navy further stressed that intelligence-led operations and collaboration among security agencies remained critical to 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 elements from exploiting unsuspecting members of the public.
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