The Nigerian Navy successfully thwarted a suspected sea robbery and rescued 16 passengers along the Ibaka–Calabar Channel during a swift operation on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
Acting on intelligence regarding suspicious activity near Buoy 12 within the critical Ibaka–Calabar maritime corridor, gunboats from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA were immediately dispatched. Their mission was to intercept the suspected criminals, deny them freedom of action, and restore order in the channel, as the attackers were reportedly holding civilians hostage for ransom in the creeks.
Upon reaching the objective area, the naval patrol team confronted suspected sea robbers who had seized control of a fibre passenger boat transporting civilians from Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State to Bakassi in Cameroon. The criminals were holding the civilians hostage, intending to kidnap them into the creeks. In a decisive display of operational readiness and naval force, the naval team engaged the robbers, successfully rescuing all passengers and forcing the criminals to retreat into shallow creeks. All 16 hostages were confirmed to be safe and unharmed. Navy personnel subsequently escorted them to the Nigeria–Cameroon maritime border, ensuring their safe passage.
This operation highlights the Navy’s proactive presence in securing Nigeria’s waters, aligning with the vision of Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who aims to build a modern, agile force to protect maritime interests. The Navy reiterated its commitment to combating crime, safeguarding lives and property at sea, and fostering a secure environment for legitimate trade.
