Gunmen abduct 15 on Calabar–Oron waterway as police launch rescue operation

Armed men have abducted 15 passengers along the Calabar–Oron maritime route in southern Nigeria, triggering a coordinated security response across Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

The incident occurred on Friday when the victims were travelling aboard a Sea Express passenger boat from Calabar to Oron along the busy coastal corridor.

Security sources confirmed that the passengers were intercepted mid-journey and taken away by the attackers, disrupting commercial movement along one of the region’s key inland water transport routes.

Following the abduction, the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Auwal Mohammed, ordered an immediate and coordinated rescue operation involving relevant security formations in both states.

In a statement issued by the Zonal Public Relations Officer, Jefferson Osupe, the AIG directed the Commissioners of Police in Cross River and Akwa Ibom to activate an intelligence-driven inter-state response aimed at securing the victims’ release and tracking down the perpetrators.

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He further instructed the police commands to work closely with the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies to enhance maritime surveillance and response along the waterways.

Mohammed also emphasised the need to disregard jurisdictional constraints in the course of the operation, urging full deployment of tactical and intelligence assets to ensure a swift resolution of the crisis.

Describing the attack as “unacceptable,” the AIG condemned the abduction and assured residents and maritime operators of intensified security efforts.

“I condemn this attack on innocent Nigerians in strong terms and reassure residents that the Nigeria Police Force under Zone 6 remains committed to safeguarding lives and property,” he said.

He also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and support security efforts by reporting suspicious movements, particularly within coastal and riverine communities.

The Calabar–Oron waterway is a major transport route linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, frequently used by commuters and traders, making the latest attack a renewed concern over maritime security in the region.