Navy saves two kidnap victims in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Navy has rescued two people who were kidnapped and recovered some stolen outboard engines. This happened during an operation against sea robbery and kidnapping in Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State.

The operation took place on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. A statement released on Thursday was signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.

The statement mentioned that the operation began after the Navy got credible information about suspected sea robbers and kidnappers. These criminals were targeting fishermen and stealing fishing boats and outboard engines.

The Nigerian Navy Ship JUBILEE Maritime Quick Response Team based in Ibeno quickly moved to the area to handle the situation. The Navy said this operation led to the rescue of the two victims and the recovery of several stolen outboard engines. They described this success as part of their work to protect lives and support legal maritime activities on Nigeria’s waterways.

“The successful operation shows the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing commitment to Search and Rescue, protecting lives, and securing legal maritime activities across Nigeria’s waters,” the statement noted.

The Navy also called on coastal communities, fishermen, and other people involved in maritime activities to give timely information to security agencies. They said, “This operation also shows how important credible intelligence and community support are for improving maritime security. The Nigerian Navy encourages coastal communities, fishermen, and other stakeholders to keep providing timely information that can help stop criminal activities and assist people in distress.”

They promised to keep doing proactive patrols, Search and Rescue operations, and intelligence-driven actions. Their goal is to protect lives and property while making sure criminals cannot operate freely on Nigeria’s waterways.