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| Photo credit — Navy during operation |
Two kidnapped victims were safely rescued by the Nigerian Navy during an operation targeting sea robbery and kidnapping in Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State. Naval personnel also recovered several stolen outboard engines after suspects fled the scene.
The operation took place on 30 September 2026. It followed intelligence reports indicating that suspected sea robbers and kidnappers were targeting local fishermen, stealing boats and outboard engines in the area.
According to a statement from Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Information of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Navy Ship Jubilee Maritime Quick Response Team based in Ibeno responded promptly after receiving the intelligence.
Personnel encountered two boats believed to be linked to the suspects. When the naval team began pursuit, the occupants abandoned the boats and fled into nearby creeks. One of the abandoned boats contained the two kidnapped victims along with several stolen outboard engines.
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“The victims were immediately rescued by the naval team and escorted to safety,” Folorunsho said. The recovered engines have been secured for verification and further necessary action. Efforts to track and arrest the fleeing suspects remain ongoing.
Folorunsho emphasised that the operation demonstrates the Navy’s continued commitment to protecting lives, securing legitimate maritime activities, and curbing criminal activities on Nigeria’s waterways. He added that the Navy will maintain regular patrols, search-and-rescue operations, and intelligence-led interventions to enhance security in the region.
Context on maritime security challenges
Coastal and riverine communities in Akwa Ibom and the broader Niger Delta region have long faced threats from sea robbery, illegal bunkering, and kidnapping of fishermen. These crimes disrupt livelihoods that depend on fishing and legitimate marine transport. The Nigerian Navy has prioritised Maritime Quick Response Teams and increased patrols in recent years to address such incidents.
This particular rescue highlights the value of timely intelligence and rapid response. Official statements such as the one issued by the Navy’s Director of Information remain the primary source of verified information on these operations.
The Navy continues to urge members of the public and maritime stakeholders to report suspicious activities promptly to enable faster interventions.
Samuel O. Sulaimon is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Naijapiz. He covers News, Sports, Finance, Faiths, Education, Technology.
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