By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of all 14 passengers abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways in a joint operation with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The Command said the victims were freed following sustained intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency collaboration and intensified pressure on criminal gangs operating within the maritime corridor.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, in a statement on Monday, said joint operatives acted on credible intelligence, stepped up surveillance and launched targeted operations across identified flashpoints, leading to the safe rescue of all the victims without any loss of life.
She said the rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and undergoing debriefing before being reunited with their families.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended personnel of both the Police and EFCC for what he described as professionalism, synergy and operational efficiency in the successful operation.
According to him, the development highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling complex security challenges, especially along the state’s waterways.
The police boss said efforts had been intensified to track down and arrest the perpetrators behind the abduction, assuring that all those involved would be identified and brought to justice.
He also reassured residents, maritime operators and the general public of strengthened security presence along the waterways and urged them to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
Azare warned criminal elements to desist from all forms of illegal activities or face decisive and coordinated action from law enforcement agencies.
The Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and maintaining security in both land and maritime domains.
