Navy rescues two kidnap victims, recovers outboard engines

Nkereuwem Effiong

Two kidnap victims have been rescued and a large cache of stolen outboard engines recovered by the Nigerian Navy during separate operations in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The operation, carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka, also led to the recovery of numerous outboard engines suspected to have been stolen from fishermen and maritime operators in the coastal area.

The Commanding Officer of FOB Ibaka said the rescue followed credible intelligence and sustained patrols aimed at combating kidnapping, sea robbery and other criminal activities along the state’s waterways.

According to him, the victims were rescued unharmed and have since been reunited with their families after receiving necessary medical attention.

He explained that the recovered outboard engines were found during a series of raids on suspected criminal hideouts in the creeks, adding that efforts were ongoing to identify their rightful owners and apprehend those responsible for the thefts.

The naval officer reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property within the maritime domain, stressing that criminal elements would not be allowed to operate freely in the area.

He urged residents, fishermen and other stakeholders to continue providing timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to rid the waterways of criminal activities.

The latest operation is part of ongoing security measures by the Navy to enhance safety along the nation’s coastal communities, protect maritime assets and ensure uninterrupted economic activities in the region.

Residents commended the intervention, expressing optimism that sustained security operations would help curb kidnapping and theft cases that have affected livelihoods in coastal settlements.