Navy arrests fraudulent shipping agent, clears personnel of misconduct
Nigerian Navy Arrests Suspected Fraudulent Shipping Agent
The Nigerian Navy has arrested a suspected fraudulent shipping agent, Nsikak Sunday Ekpo, and transferred him to the Nigeria Police Force Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar for further investigation and potential prosecution.
The arrest followed a directive from Naval Headquarters, prompted by a complaint received through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Allegations stated that Ekpo had collected 400,000 naira from Navy personnel to secure protection for the Motor Vessel CHIMBA Express, a Cameroonian-registered vessel operating in the Calabar Channel.
According to a statement from Captain Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the allegations stem from a December 22, 2025, incident in which personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship Victory, as well as NNS OSE and Forward Operating Base IBAKA, responded to a distress call regarding a fire onboard the vessel. The Navy’s prompt and coordinated efforts successfully rescued both the vessel and its crew.
Subsequently, claims emerged that Navy personnel had accepted payment for security services but failed to assist the vessel, resulting in a lack of reimbursement.
The Navy conducted a thorough investigation, which revealed that its personnel neither solicited nor received any payments or entered into any security agreements with the vessel’s owners. The investigation found that Ekpo, an agent with PINAPAT Shipping Agency in Calabar, fraudulently collected money under the pretense of it being intended for the Navy personnel involved in the rescue operation.
The Nigerian Navy emphasized its commitment to professionalism, integrity, and accountability, stating it will take decisive action against individuals or groups attempting to exploit its operations for personal gain.
Ekpo has been formally handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for necessary legal proceedings.
