Two different sets of repentant militants have voluntarily surrendered to the army at the headquarters of the 13 Brigade, Calabar, Cross River State with their cache of arms, ammunition and other items under the state’s amnesty programme.
The first set of repentant militants led by ThankGod Ebikontei, also known as Ayibanuagha, surrendered with 39 fighters, while the second set, headed by John Isaac, also known as Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys, surrendered with 41 fighters.
The surrendered weapons include three three AK-47 rifles, two pump action guns, one Mark 4 rifle, one G3 rifle, 12 single-barrel guns, 10 AK-47 magazines and three speed boats.
Others are four house power boat engines, one C4 charge explosive, 19 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 84 dane gun cartridges, as well as other assorted military kits, tools, locally fabricated weapons, and their accessories.
Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, who disclosed this to newsmen in Calabar, said that this is in line with the amnesty programme of the Cross River State government in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
He further explained that the large number of militants that willingly emerged from the creeks and submitted themselves under the amnesty programme is a major confidence-building milestone.
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“This voluntary surrender and embrace of amnesty by these former militants clearly demonstrates that sustained military operations, combined with constructive engagement and strong collaboration with the Cross River State government and other security agencies, remain effective tools for restoring peace,” he said.
The commander said that the brigade will continue to provide a secure environment, while supporting all lawful initiatives aimed at reintegrating repentant youths and ensuring lasting stability across its area of responsibility.
Upon completion of the amnesty process, he also disclosed that the ex-militants will be formally handed over to the state government and thereafter, undergo profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS).
“This development further underscores the importance of effective civil-military collaboration in addressing security challenges and promoting sustainable peace” the army commander said.
He commended the state government for its unwavering commitment to peace, security, and stability in the state.
