The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Bonny, Rivers State, successfully rescued 15 kidnapped passengers over the weekend after their boat was hijacked by armed men.
The incident took place when a market boat, en route from Bonny Island to Port Harcourt, was attacked by four unidentified gunmen.
The assailants forcefully took control of the vessel, diverting it towards a creek in an apparent attempt to evade capture.
Lieutenant Commander Sirajo Almustapha, Base Operations Officer of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (NNFOB), confirmed that a distress call was received at approximately 2:20 pm.
In response, the FOB’s anti-kidnapping team swiftly mobilized and launched a pursuit.
The naval team tracked the kidnappers to Opuadakiri Creek along the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route.
Upon sighting the approaching naval gunboats, the kidnappers abandoned the boat and fled into the dense creek terrain, leaving their captives behind.
“All 15 passengers were safely rescued without any injuries,” Almustapha stated. “They were subsequently debriefed before being escorted to their destination.”
READ ALSO: Nigerian Navy Uncovers Three Illegal Refineries, Seizes Stolen Crude in Delta
According to the boat driver’s testimony, the armed men, numbering four, included one individual wielding a rifle.
The Navy has since intensified patrols in the region to curb further incidents of piracy and kidnapping.
The successful operation is part of FOB Bonny’s ongoing commitment to maritime security and law enforcement in the region.
Under the directive of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Nigerian Navy has been executing routine patrols targeting illegal activities, including crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and kidnapping.
Authorities reaffirmed their dedication to protecting Nigeria’s waterways and ensuring the safety of commuters and commercial vessels operating within the area.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities as the Navy continues its efforts to maintain security in the region.