Navy foils sea robbery, rescues 16 in Ibaka–Calabar Channel
Nigerian Navy Rescues 16 Passengers in Foiled Sea Robbery
Ibaka, Nigeria — The Nigerian Navy successfully thwarted a suspected sea robbery attempt and rescued 16 passengers during a maritime security operation on Sunday, March 8, 2026, along the Ibaka–Calabar Channel.
Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Director of Naval Information, stated that the operation was initiated based on credible intelligence regarding maritime criminal activities near Buoy 12. This area is known for its strategic importance in the Ibaka–Calabar corridor.
Following the intelligence report, gunboats from the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base in Ibaka were dispatched to the scene to address the security threat. Upon arrival, naval personnel encountered a group of suspected sea robbers who had seized control of a fiber passenger boat, which was transporting civilians from Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State to Bakassi in Cameroon.
Folorunsho explained that the suspects were holding the passengers hostage with the intent of abducting them into nearby creeks.
In a coordinated response, the naval patrol team engaged the assailants, who subsequently fled into shallow creeks. The operation resulted in the safe rescue of all 16 passengers, who were reported to be unharmed.
After the rescue, naval personnel escorted the individuals to the Nigeria–Cameroon maritime border to ensure their further safety.
Folorunsho emphasized that this operation underscores the Navy’s ongoing commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime environment. He highlighted the vision of Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of the Naval Staff, to develop a modern and agile naval force capable of safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests. The Navy remains dedicated to combating maritime crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property at sea, supporting commercial and economic activities in the region.
