Security agencies have commenced a coordinated search-and-rescue mission following the abduction of 15 passengers by gunmen along the Calabar–Oron waterway.
The spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, Sunday Eitokpah, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that efforts were underway to secure the victims’ release and track down those responsible.
According to him, the operation is being carried out in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Police Command and the Nigerian Navy.
“The command is working in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom Command and the Navy. Coordinated search-and-rescue and tactical operations are ongoing to ensure the safe recovery of the victims and the swift arrest of the perpetrators,” he said.
A naval officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the attackers ambushed the passenger ferry while it was en route.
The boat had departed from Calabar in Cross River State and was heading to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when it came under attack.