Gunmen have abducted 15 passengers in a pirate attack on a commercial boat along the Calabar–Oron waterways in Cross River State.
The victims were traveling from Calabar to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when the incident occurred on April 16, 2026.
Zone 6 Police spokesman Jefferson Osupe confirmed the attack, saying it triggered an immediate security response. Assistant Inspector-General of Police Auwal Mohammed has ordered a sustained joint operation to free the victims and apprehend those behind the abduction.
Mohammed directed Cross River Commissioner of Police Rashid Afegbua and Akwa Ibom Commissioner Baba Azare to activate a coordinated, intelligence-led interstate security framework.
“The directive emphasises seamless collaboration between both state commands, in synergy with the Nigerian Navy and other relevant security agencies, to dominate the waterways, dismantle criminal networks and restore confidence in maritime safety across the zone,” the statement said.
The AIG instructed operatives to disregard jurisdictional lines and deploy all tactical and intelligence assets available. He described rescuing the passengers as a top operational priority and vowed relentless pursuit of the attackers until justice is served.
While condemning the incident, Mohammed assured residents and maritime operators of the police’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He urged the public to stay calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, and to report suspicious activity, especially in coastal and riverine areas.
Zone 6 Command pledged transparency and regular updates as operations progress, stating that criminals would find no safe haven in the area.
