Police, EFCC rescue 14 kidnap victims in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in a coordinated joint operation with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has secured the release of all 14 victims abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar-Oron waterways.

The operation followed sustained intelligence-driven efforts, robust inter-agency collaboration, and relentless pressure mounted on criminal elements operating within the maritime corridor.

Acting on credible intelligence, joint operatives intensified surveillance and launched targeted operations across identified flashpoints, culminating in the safe rescue of all victims without any loss of life, the command said.

Timfon John, the State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, said that the rescued victims ” are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, alongside necessary debriefing, before being reunited with their families.”

Baba Mohammed Azare, the Commissioner of Police, commended the professionalism, synergy, and operational efficiency demonstrated by personnel of both agencies, the PPRO said.

He noted that the success recorded underscored the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in addressing complex security challenges.

Meanwhile, efforts have been intensified to track down and apprehend the perpetrators behind the abduction.

The Command assured the public that all those involved would be identified and brought to justice while reassuring residents, maritime operators, and the general public of enhanced security presence along the waterways.

The Command called for continued cooperation of residents through the provision of timely and credible information.

The statement also warned criminal elements to desist from all forms of illegal activities or face decisive and coordinated action from law enforcement agencies.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains resolute, proactive, and fully committed to safeguarding lives and property across all domains, ” the Command said.