Rita Enemuru, Reporting
CALABAR — The Nigeria Police Force, working alongside operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has successfully secured the release of 14 victims abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways.
The victims were rescued unharmed following a sustained intelligence-driven operation, robust inter-agency collaboration, and coordinated tactical efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within the maritime corridor, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
Acting on credible intelligence, joint security forces intensified surveillance and carried out targeted operations across known flashpoints along the treacherous waterway, leading to the safe recovery of all fourteen individuals.
The rescued victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and necessary debriefing, after which they will be reunited with their families, a joint statement from the security agencies said.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, commended the joint team for the successful rescue, describing it as a testament to what effective inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-led policing can achieve in even the most challenging environments.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of all citizens, no matter the terrain,” the IGP said.
The Nigeria Police Force assured the public that efforts remain underway to track down and apprehend all perpetrators involved in the abduction, vowing that they will be brought to justice.
The Calabar–Oron waterways have long been a hotspot for pirate activity, with kidnappings for ransom posing a significant threat to local communities and commercial traffic.
Monday’s successful rescue operation marks a rare victory against the heavily armed criminal groups operating in the region.
