The Nigerian Navy has rescued two kidnap victims and recovered several stolen outboard engines during an operation against sea robbery and kidnapping in the Ibeno area of Akwa Ibom State.
The operation followed credible intelligence on the activities of suspected sea robbers and kidnappers targeting fishermen and forcibly taking away fishing boats and outboard engines.
In response to the intelligence, the Nigerian Navy Ship JUBILEE Maritime Quick Response Team in Ibeno mobilised to the area to counter the threat.
During the operation, the naval team encountered two boats suspected to have been operated by the criminals, prompting the occupants to flee into adjoining creeks.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Navy Steps Up Fight Against Oil Theft
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 and escorted to safety.
The recovered engines have been secured for verification and further necessary action, while efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said “the operation underscored the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to search and rescue operations, protection of lives and security of legitimate maritime activities across Nigeria’s waters”.
He said “the Navy’s network of ships, bases, surveillance systems, maritime quick response teams and other operational elements enabled timely responses to distress situations and emerging security threats”.
Folorunsho stressed the importance of credible intelligence and community support in strengthening maritime security.
He urged coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to provide timely information that could assist in preventing criminal activities and responding to persons in distress.
He reaffirmed “the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain through proactive patrols, search and rescue operations and intelligence-driven interventions aimed at protecting lives and property while denying criminal elements freedom of action in the nation’s waterways”.
