By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
The Nigerian Navy has foiled a suspected sea robbery attack and rescued three passengers during a routine night patrol in Akwa Ibom waters.
The operation was carried out by the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka under the Eastern Naval Command after its patrol team received a distress alert from a passing boat reporting an ongoing sea robbery attack around Mbendoro waters.
In a statement issued by the Eastern Naval Command in Calabar, the Navy said the rescue took place at about 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2026, when the patrol team swiftly responded to the emergency.
According to the statement, the naval personnel intercepted the attackers and successfully rescued a passenger boat loaded with tomatoes along with its three occupants.
The victims were identified as Mr. David Okon, Anietie Friday and David Edet. They were travelling from Cameroon to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when they came under attack by the suspected sea robbers.
The Navy said the rescued passengers were safely escorted to FOB Ibaka, adding that no injuries were recorded during the operation.
It described the successful mission as a demonstration of the Eastern Naval Command’s commitment to protecting lives and securing Nigeria’s maritime domain through sustained surveillance and prompt operational response.
The Command reaffirmed its resolve to combat maritime crime and ensure a safe and secure environment for legitimate maritime activities within its area of responsibility.
