Pirates Abduct 10 Maritime Workers Along Bonny-Port Harcourt Route

At least 10 maritime workers are feared to have been abducted by sea pirates while traveling along the Bonny-Port Harcourt waterway.

Although details are still emerging, Naija News gathered that the incident occurred early Monday morning, involving 10 individuals traveling between Bonny and Port Harcourt.

According to Tribune, the district Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria in Rivers State, Israel Waribo Pepple, confirmed the incident via telephone, stating, “It’s not a rumor, it is real. 10 persons have been kidnapped this morning coming from Bonny to Port Harcourt. We’ve reported to the security agencies.”

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer confirmed they were aware of the kidnapping.

The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Olugbenga Adepoju, and the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in the area to ensure that the victims are rescued as quickly as possible.

Rivers State Government Pledges to Combat Sea Piracy and Curb Contract Mismanagement

Meanwhile, the Rivers State government has expressed strong concern over the recent increase in sea piracy, which has led to the abduction and death of many boat travelers in the region.

In response to these attacks, the government has vowed to take decisive action to enhance security along the state’s waterways.

The government’s commitment was prompted by a series of urgent complaints from maritime operators, who reported their ordeal to state officials.

Chairman of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Rivers Commercial District, Israel Waribo Pepple, highlighted the frequent piracy attacks on waterways, including the previously safe Bonny-Port Harcourt route.

These attacks have caused significant fear among travelers, as pirates often take hostages or kill victims while stealing their personal belongings and boats.

Pepple criticized security agencies for their perceived failure to adequately protect law-abiding citizens using the state’s waterways, noting that their focus often seems to be on multinational oil companies rather than the broader public.

He urged the government to intervene, protect the livelihoods of maritime workers, and ensure the safe release of those kidnapped.

In response, Governor Sim Fubara condemned the attacks and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents.

Represented by the Head of Rivers State Civil Service, George Nwaeke, the governor commended the union for reporting the criminal activities and assured them that the government would intensify efforts to improve security across the state.

Governor Fubara called on the public to report any suspicious activities and individuals, emphasizing that community cooperation is essential for effective policing.

He expressed confidence that with the right information, the government could make Rivers State a safer place for all, including tourists.