By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA – A coordinated security operation involving the Cross River State Government, security agencies, and local vigilante groups has successfully secured the release of seventeen individuals abducted eleven days ago along the Calabar-Oron waterway.
Mr. Bassey Asuquo, spokesperson for the Cross River State Government, revealed that the hostages were freed after extensive intelligence work and carefully coordinated surveillance efforts.
The rescued passengers are currently receiving medical treatment and psychological support at a government health center in Calabar.
Preliminary inquiries show that the victims were among roughly thirty passengers aboard a Sea Express Limited vessel en route from Calabar in Cross River State to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when armed men attacked the boat mid-journey last Thursday.
The assailants reportedly forced the vessel to divert into a remote creek settlement, where they took several passengers hostage.
In an official statement, the Commissioner for Information commended the strategic and persistent efforts of the State Security Adviser’s Office, the Nigerian Navy, and the Marine Police Unit during the rescue operation.
“This joint mission exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the state government, under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Bassey Otu, to ensuring the safety of all residents and travelers within our borders,” the statement highlighted.
The Commissioner further explained that the rescue was carried out by a combined team of naval officers, local trackers, and anti-piracy units, emphasizing that no ransom was paid, underscoring the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in the area.
Upon receiving the freed passengers in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to securing the waterways and protecting law-abiding citizens and visitors alike.
“Our waterways are vital for trade and tourism. We will not tolerate any criminal acts that threaten peace or endanger lives. This successful rescue sends a strong message that Cross River will not be a safe haven for criminals,” the governor declared.
He also directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Ministry of Health to provide comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration support for the rescued individuals.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Navy Base, NNS Victory in Calabar, has intensified patrols and established additional surveillance points along the waterways linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.
Authorities have issued stern warnings that any attempts to undermine maritime security within the state’s waters will be met with prompt and decisive action.
The public has responded positively to the rescue, with residents and travelers praising the government’s swift intervention. Maritime transport operators have also expressed renewed confidence in the safety of the Calabar-Oron route and called for continued vigilance.
This incident highlights ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat piracy and related crimes along Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways, which serve as critical corridors for commerce and interstate travel in the Gulf of Guinea region.