Navy Rescues Two Kidnap Victims, Recovers Stolen Outboard Engines in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Navy has rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered several stolen outboard engines during an operation against sea robbery and kidnapping in the Ibeno area of Akwa Ibom State.

The operation was conducted on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected sea robbers and kidnappers targeting fishermen and forcibly taking away fishing boats and outboard engines.

Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this in a statement, saying the Nigerian Navy Ship JUBILEE Maritime Quick Response Team in Ibeno swiftly mobilised to the area after receiving the intelligence.

According to him, the naval team encountered two boats suspected to be operated by the criminals, prompting the occupants to flee into adjoining creeks.

He said during the ensuing pursuit, the suspects abandoned one of the boats containing several stolen outboard engines and the two kidnapped victims.

The victims were immediately rescued by the naval team and escorted to safety, while the recovered outboard engines were secured for verification and further necessary action.

Folorunsho said efforts were ongoing to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

He added that the operation underscored the Navy’s commitment to search and rescue, protection of lives and security of legitimate maritime activities across Nigeria’s waters.

The Navy also urged coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to help prevent criminal activities and facilitate rapid responses to persons in distress.

It said it would continue proactive patrols, search and rescue operations and intelligence-driven interventions to protect lives and property while denying criminal elements freedom of action in Nigeria’s waterways.