Navy
The Nigerian Navy has rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered several stolen outboard engines during an operation against sea robbery and kidnapping in Akwa Ibom.
This is contained in an operational report by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
Folorunsho said that the operation, which was carried out on Wednesday, around Ibeno general area, followed credible information on suspected sea robbers and kidnappers targeting fishermen and forcibly taking away fishing boats and outboard engines.
He said that the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) JUBILEE Maritime Quick Response Team, Ibeno, reacting to the information, swiftly mobilised to the area to counter the threat.
“During the operation, the naval team encountered two boats suspected to be operated by the criminals.
“When the occupants saw the operatives, they flee into the adjoining creeks.
“In the ensuing pursuit, the suspects abandoned one of the boats containing several stolen outboard engines and the two kidnapped victims who were immediately rescued by the naval team and escorted to safety.
“The recovered outboard engines were secured for verification and further necessary action, while efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspects,” he said.
The naval spokesman said that the successful operation underscored the navy’s sustained commitment to Search and Rescue (SAR), the protection of lives and the security of legitimate maritime activities across Nigeria’s waters.
He added that through the service’s network of ships, bases, surveillance systems, maritime quick response teams and other operational elements, the navy would continue to maintain a presence across the maritime domain.
“This presence will enable timely responses to distress situations and emerging security threats.
“The operation also demonstrates the importance of credible intelligence and community support in enhancing maritime security,” he said.
Folorunsho encouraged coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to continue providing timely information that could assist in preventing criminal activities and responding rapidly to persons in distress.
He reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, adding that the service would continue to sustain proactive patrols, search and rescue operations, and intelligence-driven interventions.
He added that he navy would continue operations aimed at protecting lives and property while denying criminal elements freedom of action in the nation’s waterways.
