15 kidnapped persons will be rescued soon – Police

The Cross River State Police Command has assured the public that the 15 boat passengers kidnapped on Friday along the Calabar-Oron waterway will be rescued soon. The victims are reported to be mostly students traveling to their examination centers in Akwa Ibom State for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams. A statement by […]

The Cross River State Police Command has assured the public that the 15 boat passengers kidnapped on Friday along the Calabar-Oron waterway will be rescued soon.

The victims are reported to be mostly students traveling to their examination centers in Akwa Ibom State for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams.

A statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Eitokpah Sunday Akata, disclosed that the Nigerian Navy, along with the Cross River and Akwa Ibom State Police Commands, are working closely to ensure their safe return.

He stated that the three security organizations have deployed their tactical teams and are currently combing the expansive creeks to locate the victims.

The abduction occurred aboard a Sea Express boat en route from Calabar to Oron on Friday.

As of press time, the kidnappers have not yet reached out to the victims’ families or placed any ransom demands.

Akata stated: “The Command is working in close synergy with the Akwa Ibom State Police Command and the Nigerian Navy. Coordinated search-and-rescue and tactical operations are currently ongoing to ensure the safe recovery of the victims and the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.”

Kidnappings along the Calabar-Oron waterway have seen a resurgence in recent times, raising concerns among commuters and residents.