The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory has rescued 17 passengers who were abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterway in Cross River State.
The victims regained their freedom days after armed men attacked a passenger ferry operated by Akwa-Cross Boat Management Limited, owners of the Sea Express service.
According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Commander Bala on Wednesday, the operation was carried out two weeks after the abduction, following sustained surveillance and coordinated efforts by multiple naval formations.
“Following the incident, gallant personnel of NNS Victory, with support from Forward Operating Base Ibaka, embarked on a series of operations including the blockade of creeks leading to the kidnappers’ camp,” the statement read.
He added that aerial surveillance operations conducted by the Nigerian Navy Air Arm, under the coordination of the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command and the direction of the Chief of Naval Staff, played a key role in tracking the criminals’ movements.
The success of the mission was further aided by credible intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
“These efforts effectively cut off the kidnappers’ logistics supply, compelling them to accept negotiations with the Office of the National Security Adviser for the safe release of the victims to the Nigerian Navy,” the statement added.
Upon their rescue, the 17 passengers were taken to the Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital in Calabar for medical evaluation before being handed over to the management of Sea Express Transit Limited for onward reunion with their families.
The Navy reassured the public of its continued commitment to maritime security, warning that operations to apprehend the fleeing suspects are still ongoing.
“The Nigerian Navy will not relent in its efforts to rid the waterways of undesirable elements to enable law-abiding citizens to go about their normal activities without hindrance,” Bala emphasized.
