Nigeria Police Rescue 14 Abducted Victims in Joint Anti-Piracy Operation
Akwa Ibom authorities hail successful maritime rescue mission as manhunt for perpetrators continues
June 12, 2024 – Nigerian security forces have successfully rescued 14 individuals kidnapped by sea pirates along the volatile Calabar-Oron waterways in a high-stakes joint operation. The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, working alongside the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), freed the hostages without casualties following what officials describe as “precision intelligence efforts.”
Daring Rescue Operation
According to police spokesperson Timfon John, the operation unfolded after authorities received credible tips about the captives’ whereabouts. Officers launched targeted raids across suspected pirate hideouts along the maritime corridor, culminating in the victims’ safe recovery on Tuesday.
“All fourteen victims were successfully rescued unharmed,” John confirmed in an official statement. The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical care and psychological support before reuniting with their families.
Inter-Agency Collaboration Praised
Akwa Ibom Commissioner of Police Baba Azare commended the seamless coordination between the police and EFCC, calling it a model for combating organized crime. “The professionalism and synergy between both agencies were critical to this victory,” Azare said, vowing to intensify patrols along the troubled waterways.
The rescue comes weeks after gunmen abducted 15 passengers on the same route in April, as previously reported by Premium Times. Authorities have yet to clarify why only 14 victims were recovered in this operation, and repeated attempts to reach spokesperson Timfon John for comment were unsuccessful.
Ongoing Manhunt
While celebrating the mission’s success, police emphasized that the perpetrators remain at large. “We are closing in on these criminals, and they will face justice,” the statement read. Azare urged coastal communities to report suspicious activities, pledging enhanced security measures to prevent future kidnappings.
The Calabar-Oron route, a critical transport link between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, has seen escalating pirate attacks, raising concerns over maritime safety in Nigeria’s oil-rich south.
— Reported by Nexio News
