The Nigerian Navy has successfully reunited 17 abducted passengers with their families after a rescue operation along the Calabar waterway. The passengers were kidnapped by gunmen on September 25 while traveling from Calabar to Oron in Akwa Ibom. According to Lieutenant Commander Sulaiman Bala, spokesperson for the Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY, the victims underwent medical examinations at the Naval Reference Hospital in Calabar before being released to their families.
The rescue operation was carried out by the Nigerian Navy without any ransom being paid. The Navy’s swift response was based on actionable intelligence, which enabled them to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the hostages. The operation involved a series of blockade and air surveillance activities, with support from the Forward Operating Base IBAKA and the Nigerian Navy Air Arm.
The successful rescue was facilitated by credible intelligence from the Department of State Services and Defence Intelligence Agency, which helped to cut off logistics supply to the kidnappers’ camp. This compelled the criminals to negotiate with the Office of the National Security Adviser for the release of the victims. The Nigerian Navy has reassured the public that it will continue to crack down on criminal elements within the Calabar waterways, ensuring the safety of law-abiding citizens.
The incident highlights the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian Navy to combat piracy and kidnapping in the region. The Calabar waterway has been a hotspot for such incidents, with several cases of abduction and hijacking reported in recent months. The Navy’s success in rescuing the 17 passengers is a significant boost to its operations and a testament to its commitment to protecting the nation’s waterways.
The Nigerian Navy has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The Navy’s ongoing operations aim to rid the waterways of criminal elements and ensure the safety of citizens and commercial activities. With the successful rescue of the 17 passengers, the Nigerian Navy has reinforced its determination to protect the nation’s waterways and uphold the rule of law.
