Senate pressure pays off as Police, EFCC rescue 14 kidnap victims

Senator Ekong Sampson’s call on the floor of the Senate for the immediate and safe release of abducted passengers on the Calabar–Oron waterways has recorded a breakthrough, following the successful rescue of all 14 victims.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in a coordinated joint operation with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), secured the release of the 14 passengers kidnapped by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways.

The rescue followed sustained intelligence-led operations, strong inter-agency collaboration, and relentless pressure on criminal elements operating within the maritime corridor. Acting on credible intelligence, joint operatives intensified surveillance and launched targeted operations across identified flashpoints, leading to the safe rescue of all the victims without loss of life.

Police said the rescued passengers are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, as well as necessary debriefing, before being reunited with their families.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, praised the professionalism, synergy, and operational efficiency displayed by personnel of both agencies, noting that the operation highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation in tackling complex security threats.

He added that efforts had been intensified to track down and arrest those responsible for the abduction, assuring the public that all perpetrators would be identified and brought to justice.

Azare further reassured residents, maritime operators, and the general public of increased security presence along the waterways, while urging continued cooperation through the timely provision of credible information.

He also warned criminal elements to desist from illegal activities or face decisive and coordinated action from law enforcement agencies.

The police command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.