Mathew Amechi
In a daring counter-operation, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command’s marine division successfully repelled a pirate attack along the volatile Oron-Calabar waterway, neutralizing an armed assault on civilians and recovering a cache of weapons, ammunition, and a speedboat during a subsequent raid on the attackers’ hideout.
DSP Timfon John, the command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday, detailing how marine police personnel intercepted the pirates while conducting a search-and-rescue mission in the area.
Acting on urgent intelligence, officers rushed to the scene where seven pirates aboard a speedboat were reportedly attacking civilians.“Our marine division swiftly mobilized operatives to the location,” John stated. “The hoodlums engaged our personnel in a gun duel but were overpowered by the superior firepower of our team.
The pirates sustained bullet wounds and fled into a shallow creek inaccessible to police boats.”Undeterred, the police launched a follow-up raid on the pirates’ camp, seizing critical evidence, including a locally made gun, two rounds of K2 live ammunition, two empty shells, and a speedboat fitted with a 200HP Yamaha engine.
Additional recovered items included a 15HP Yamaha engine, dismantled engine parts, an improvised toolbox, a petrol generator, and an OX standing fan.
John emphasized that the operation revealed the police’s commitment to curbing maritime crime, noting, “Efforts are intensified to apprehend the fleeing members of this gang. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.”The Oron-Calabar waterway, a vital route for trade and transportation in southern Nigeria, has faced recurring piracy threats, endangering local communities and commerce.
Tuesday’s intervention marks a significant victory for security forces amid ongoing efforts to safeguard the region’s waterways.
Authorities have pledged to sustain patrols and intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks, assuring residents of heightened protection against future attacks.