The Nigerian Navy has foiled a suspected sea robbery attempt and rescued 16 passengers along the Ibaka–Calabar Channel during a rapid maritime security operation.
Naval spokesperson Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho said the mission was launched after intelligence reports of suspicious activity near Buoy 12 on the busy corridor. Gunboats from the Navy’s Forward Operating Base in Ibaka were deployed and intercepted suspected robbers who had seized a passenger fibre boat travelling from Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State to Bakassi in Cameroon.
The criminals had reportedly taken the passengers hostage with plans to abduct them into nearby creeks. Naval forces engaged the suspects, forcing them to flee, and successfully rescued all 16 passengers, who were found safe and unharmed.
The navy later escorted the vessel to the Nigeria–Cameroon maritime border, describing the operation as part of its continued effort to secure Nigerian waters and protect maritime trade.