Gunmen abduct 15 passengers on Calabar–Oron waterway as police launch coordinated inter-state operation to rescue victims.
- +Gunmen Abduct 15 Passengers On Calabar–Oron Waterway
Gunmen have abducted 15 passengers travelling along the Calabar–Oron waterway in Cross River State, in a fresh attack that has triggered a coordinated security response across multiple agencies.
Gunmen have abducted 15 passengers travelling along the Calabar–Oron waterway in Cross River State, in a fresh attack that has triggered a coordinated security response across multiple agencies.
The incident occurred on Friday when the victims were reportedly seized while aboard a Sea Express boat travelling from Calabar, the Cross River State capital, to Oron in Akwa Ibom State.
Security authorities confirmed that immediate rescue efforts have been activated following the attack, which has heightened concerns over safety along Nigeria’s coastal and riverine transport routes.
Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 6 Command, Auwal Mohammed, ordered the Commissioners of Police in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States to coordinate a joint response aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending the attackers.
According to a statement issued by Zonal Public Relations Officer Jefferson Osupe, the AIG directed both commands to activate an intelligence-driven, inter-state security framework for the operation.
The directive also called for close collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies operating in the region to support search and rescue efforts.
Mohammed instructed the police commands to remove all operational barriers that could hinder the mission and ensure full deployment of available tactical and intelligence resources.
He condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as an assault on innocent Nigerians and reaffirming the commitment of the police to restoring safety in the affected corridor.
“I condemn this attack on innocent Nigerians in strong terms, and want to reassure residents and maritime operators in both states that the Nigeria Police Force under Zone 6 remains resolute, proactive, and fully committed to safeguarding lives and property.”
He further appealed to members of the public to remain calm and assist security agencies with credible information.
“I appeal to members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and to promptly report any suspicious activities, particularly along coastal and riverine communities.”
The abduction adds to growing security concerns in waterways linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, where commercial boat travel remains a critical means of transportation for residents and traders.
