The Nigeria Police Command in Akwa Ibom says its personnel successfully secured the release of all 14 victims abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, who made this known in a statement in Uyo on Tuesday, added that the kidnapped victims were rescued in a coordinated joint operation with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to the statement signed on behalf of the State Commissioner of Police (CP) Baba Mohammed Azare, “the operation followed a sustained intelligence-driven effort, robust inter-agency collaboration, and relentless pressure mounted on criminal elements operating within the maritime corridor.”
She stated, “Acting on credible intelligence, joint operatives intensified surveillance and launched targeted operations across identified flashpoints, culminating in the safe rescue of all victims without any loss of life.
“The rescued victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, alongside necessary debriefing, before being reunited with their families.
The Command’s spokesperson added that CP Baba Azare had commended the professionalism, synergy, and operational efficiency demonstrated by personnel of both agencies.
“He noted that the success recorded underscores the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in addressing complex security challenges.”
According to the statement, efforts have been intensified to track down and apprehend the perpetrators behind the abduction.
The Command also assured the public that all those involved would be identified and brought to justice.
The CP further reassured residents, maritime operators, and the general public of enhanced security presence along the waterways and urged continued cooperation through the provision of timely and credible information.
The CP also warned criminal elements to desist from all forms of illegal activities to avoid “decisive and coordinated action from law enforcement agencies.”
The statement added that the Police Command remained resolute, proactive, and fully committed to safeguarding lives and property across all domains in the state.
By Dianabasi Effiong
