The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued 14 passengers kidnapped by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways.
The rescue was carried out in a coordinated joint operation with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Spokesperson of the command,
DSP Timfon John, who disclosed this in a statement in Uyo on Tuesday, said the operation was carried out following sustained intelligence-driven efforts and robust inter-agency collaboration.
She said the rescued victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, alongside necessary debriefing, before being reunited with their families.
“Acting on credible intelligence, joint operatives intensified surveillance and launched targeted operations across identified flashpoints, culminating in the safe rescue of all victims without any loss of life,” she said.
John noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the professionalism, synergy, and operational efficiency demonstrated by personnel of both agencies, adding that efforts were being intensified to bring perpetrators to book.
She further said the CP reassured residents, maritime operators, and the general public of enhanced security presence along the waterways calling for continued cooperation through the provision of timely and credible information.
