Marine Police Repel Seven Pirates During Oron-Calabar Ambush
In a courageous display of tactical strength and swift response, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command successfully repelled a pirate attack along the busy Oron-Calabar waterway. The attempted ambush, which occurred during a marine patrol mission, was foiled by officers of the marine division who responded quickly to a distress alert on the high seas.
According to a statement released on Tuesday in Uyo by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, the attack took place while marine officers were engaged in a routine search-and-rescue operation. The operation was suddenly interrupted by intelligence indicating that pirates were in the act of assaulting innocent travelers along the waterway.
“Our marine police division swiftly mobilised operatives to the scene. The hoodlums engaged our personnel in a gun duel but were overpowered,” she revealed.
She further explained that the group of pirates, numbering no fewer than seven and armed with sophisticated weapons, were traveling in a high-speed boat. The officers’ prompt engagement reportedly forced the criminals into a retreat. Despite sustaining gunshot injuries during the confrontation, the pirates managed to escape into a shallow creek, an area difficult to access using standard police boats.
In a strategic follow-up raid on the suspected hideout of the fleeing pirates, the marine officers recovered several items believed to be linked to the gang’s criminal activities. These included a locally made firearm, two rounds of live K2 ammunition, and two empty shells of the same caliber. More significantly, officers recovered a speedboat outfitted with a 200HP Yamaha engine gearbox, a 15HP Yamaha engine, dismantled engine components, an improvised toolbox, and other machinery likely used in their operations. Among the additional seized items were a petrol-powered generator and an OX brand standing fan.
DSP John emphasized that the police are not relenting in their mission to bring the criminals to justice. She assured the public that a manhunt is ongoing to track and apprehend all members of the pirate gang who fled the scene. “Efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang,” she stated.
This incident is yet another reminder of the ongoing security threats along Nigeria’s inland waterways, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Pirate attacks and sea banditry have long plagued commercial and passenger transport routes in this area, jeopardizing lives and discouraging economic activities.
Local authorities and the Nigeria Police Force have stepped up efforts in recent months to curb these illegal activities by establishing more proactive patrols, enhancing community engagement, and improving intelligence sharing among security agencies.
Meanwhile, stakeholders in the maritime and transport sectors have praised the efforts of the Akwa Ibom marine police. They called for more equipment, training, and surveillance infrastructure to aid the police in future operations. Many believe that maintaining a secure waterway is essential for economic development and safe passage for both local travelers and commercial operators.
As investigations continue, the Akwa Ibom Police Command is urging residents and travelers along the Oron-Calabar route to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities. Their prompt action and continued collaboration with security agencies will be vital in keeping the region safe from criminal elements lurking along the nation’s waterways.
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