17 Passengers Abducted by Suspected Pirates on Calabar Waterways

The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed that 17 passengers were abducted by suspected sea pirates along the Calabar waterways.

The incident occurred on Thursday when gunmen hijacked a commercial passenger boat operated by Sea Express Limited. The vessel, carrying about 30 passengers, was en route from Calabar in Cross River State to Oron in Akwa Ibom State.

Deputy Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Igri Ewa, confirmed the development on Friday, saying the victims were taken to an undisclosed location.

“We are aware of the abduction and are making every effort to rescue the victims. So far, there has been no contact from the abductors, but we remain on high alert to ensure their release,” DSP Ewa said.

Family members of the abducted passengers have reportedly been unable to reach their loved ones, as their mobile phones remain switched off. A source familiar with the incident revealed that only 17 passengers were taken because the attackers’ getaway boat could not carry more people.

The Cross River State Police Command has urged residents to remain calm while security operatives continue efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.