Gunmen have kidnapped 15 passengers travelling along the Calabar-Oron water route in Cross River state.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday as the victims were on board a Sea Express boat heading from Calabar to Oron in Akwa Ibom state.
Following the attack, Auwal Mohammed, assistant inspector general of police in charge of zone 6, instructed commissioners of police in Cross River and Akwa Ibom to coordinate efforts to rescue the victims.
In a statement issued by Jefferson Osupe, the zonal police spokesperson, Mohammed directed the immediate deployment of a strong, intelligence-led and coordinated inter-state security strategy to ensure the safe recovery of the passengers and arrest of those responsible.
He also ordered the commands to work closely with the Nigerian Navy and other relevant security agencies during the operation.
The AIG further instructed that all jurisdictional and operational barriers be set aside, with full use of available tactical and intelligence resources.
“I condemn this attack on innocent Nigerians in strong terms, and want to reassure residents and maritime operators in both states that the Nigeria Police Force under Zone 6 remains resolute, proactive, and fully committed to safeguarding lives and property,” he said.
“I appeal to members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and to promptly report any suspicious activities, particularly along coastal and riverine communities.”