No fewer than 80 militants operating along the Calabar–Oron and Bakassi waterways have surrendered assorted firearms and ammunition to the Nigeria Police in Calabar, marking a major breakthrough in the ongoing arms mop-up operation in Cross River State.
The development follows weeks of sustained non-kinetic engagements by the Cross River State Police Command in collaboration with the state government, aimed at dismantling illegal armed groups, restoring safety on the waterways and promoting peace through dialogue and voluntary compliance.
The State Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, says the surrender is a clear indication that the state government’s amnesty-driven and inclusive security approach is yielding positive results.
Representing the repentant militants, their spokesperson appealed to the government to assist them with proper rehabilitation, skills acquisition and reintegration, to enable them rebuild their lives and become productive, law-abiding citizens.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Eitokpah Sunday, says the surrender was achieved without the use of force, describing it as a product of intelligence-led operations, sustained confidence-building and continuous dialogue with stakeholders,
The development marks a significant boost to ongoing efforts to rid Cross River State of illegal arms, as the state government and security agencies sustain non-kinetic strategies aimed at restoring safety on the waterways and deepening peace across the coastal and riverine communities.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
