- What: Nigerian Navy rescues 15 kidnapped passengers.
- Where: Opuadakiri Creek, Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route, Rivers State.
- Who: Victims were passengers on a market boat hijacked by four armed men.
- When: Incident occurred over the weekend, with rescue operation on Friday, March 28, 2025.
- Why: The Navy swiftly responded to a distress call, preventing a potential tragedy.
Navy Rescues 15 from Kidnappers: A Dramatic Rescue!
The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Bonny, Rivers State, pulled off a heroic rescue, saving 15 people from suspected kidnappers. The incident unfolded when a market boat, full of passengers, was ambushed by four armed men on its way from Bonny Island to Port Harcourt.
How It All Went Down
Lieutenant Commander Sirajo Almustapha, the Base Operations Officer, said the Navy’s anti-kidnapping team got a distress call around 2:20 pm. They jumped into action immediately, chasing the kidnappers into Opuadakiri Creek, along the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route. Seeing the Navy closing in, the criminals abandoned the boat and made a run for it.
Swift Action Saves Lives
Thanks to the Navy’s quick response, all 15 passengers were rescued without any injuries. After the rescue, the passengers were debriefed by the Base Operations Officer to gather more information about the incident.
Eyewitness Account
The boat driver told authorities that four men, armed with a rifle, attacked and seized control of the boat. This account highlights the brazen nature of these criminals and the dangers faced by civilians in the region.
Navy’s Commitment to Security
The Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) BONNY has been actively involved in various operations, including:
- Routine patrols
- Anti-Crude Oil Theft (COT) operations
- Anti-illegal bunkering operations
- Anti-kidnapping operations
These efforts are aimed at protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety of commercial routes in the area. This rescue is a testament to their dedication.
The Bigger Picture: Maritime Security in Nigeria
This incident is a stark reminder of the security challenges in Nigeria’s waterways. Kidnapping for ransom is a serious issue in the Niger Delta region, and the Nigerian Navy plays a crucial role in combating these crimes. According to a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), maritime crime poses a significant threat to the country’s economy and stability. The Navy’s increased presence and proactive operations are essential to deterring criminal activity and ensuring the safety of maritime transportation.
What’s Next?
The Nigerian Navy continues to patrol the waterways, working to prevent future incidents and protect the lives and property of citizens. This successful rescue sends a strong message to criminals: the Navy is watching and ready to act.
