The Nigerian Navy has successfully foiled a suspected sea robbery attack and rescued 16 passengers along the Ibaka–Calabar Channel during a swift maritime security operation carried out on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
The operation followed credible intelligence about suspicious maritime criminal activity around Buoy 12, a strategic point along the busy Ibaka–Calabar maritime corridor, a key route linking Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria and Bakassi in Cameroon.
Swift Naval Deployment Stops Maritime Crime Acting quickly on the intelligence report, gunboats from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka were deployed to the area to intercept the suspected criminals and prevent any attack on civilians using the waterway.
Upon arrival, naval patrol teams encountered suspected sea robbers who had intercepted a fibre passenger boat conveying civilians from Ibaka to Bakassi.
The criminals had taken the passengers hostage with plans to abduct them into nearby creeks, a tactic commonly used by maritime kidnappers operating in the region.
However, the Navy’s rapid response disrupted the plot.
Naval gunboats engaged the criminals, forcing them to abandon the vessel and flee into shallow creeks, while the hostages were successfully rescued.
16 Passengers Rescued Unharmed
The Nigerian Navy confirmed that all 16 passengers were rescued safely and were found to be unharmed and in good health following the rescue operation.
In accordance with operational procedures, naval personnel escorted the rescued passengers to the Nigeria–Cameroon maritime border, ensuring they could safely continue their journey.
Boost for Maritime Security in Nigerian Waters
The successful operation highlights the Nigerian Navy’s sustained maritime patrols and proactive strategy to combat sea robbery, piracy, and kidnapping in Nigeria’s coastal waters.
Naval authorities said the operation aligns with the strategic vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, aimed at building a modern, agile, and professional naval force capable of securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The Navy also reassured maritime operators, fishermen, and commercial vessels of its commitment to protect lives, protect maritime trade, and maintain safe shipping routes across Nigerian waters.
