The Nigerian Navy has rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered several stolen outboard engines during an operation against sea robbery and kidnapping in Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State.
The operation was carried out on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected sea robbers and kidnappers targeting fishermen and stealing fishing boats and outboard engines.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Nigerian Navy Ship JUBILEE Maritime Quick Response Team, Ibeno, was deployed to the area after receiving the information.
The Navy said the operation led to the rescue of the two victims and the recovery of several stolen outboard engines.
“The successful operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s sustained commitment to Search and Rescue, the protection of lives and the security of legitimate maritime activities across Nigeria’s waters,” the statement said.
The Navy urged coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to provide timely information to security agencies to help prevent criminal activities and respond quickly to persons in distress.
“The operation also demonstrates the importance of credible intelligence and community support in enhancing maritime security. The Nigerian Navy therefore encourages coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to continue providing timely information that could assist in preventing criminal activities and responding rapidly to persons in distress.”
It added that it would continue to conduct “proactive patrols, Search and Rescue operations, and intelligence-driven interventions aimed at protecting lives and property while denying criminal elements freedom of action in the nation’s waterways.”