The Nigerian Navy has successfully rescued three passengers from a suspected sea robbery attack along the waterways in Akwa Ibom State. The operation, carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka under the Eastern Naval Command, took place during a routine night patrol on Tuesday, July 29, 2026.
Distress Alert Triggers Swift Response
According to a statement issued on Monday, August 3, 2026, by the Commanding Officer of FOB Ibaka, Navy Captain Adebowale Omotosho, the patrol team received a distress alert at approximately 9:30 p.m. from a passing boat reporting an ongoing sea robbery attack around the Mbendoro waters. The team immediately proceeded to the location, where they found a passenger boat loaded with tomatoes and its three occupants under threat.
“The naval team immediately proceeded to the location, where they rescued a passenger boat loaded with tomatoes and its three occupants,” the statement read. “The patrol team responded after receiving a distress alert at about 9:30 p.m. from a passing boat reporting an ongoing sea robbery attack around the Mbendoro waters.”
Rescued Passengers Identified
The statement identified the rescued passengers as David Okon, Anietie Friday, and David Edet. The victims were travelling from Cameroon to Oron in Akwa Ibom State when their boat came under attack by suspected sea robbers. Fortunately, no injuries were recorded during the operation, and the rescued passengers were safely escorted to the FOB Ibaka facility.
“The successful operation underscores the Eastern Naval Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and securing Nigeria’s maritime domain through sustained surveillance and rapid response operations,” the statement added.
Commitment to Maritime Security
The Nigerian Navy reiterated its dedication to combating maritime crime and ensuring a safe and secure environment for legitimate maritime users operating within the nation’s territorial waters. This rescue operation highlights the effectiveness of proactive patrols and the importance of rapid response in deterring criminal activities at sea.
The command remains vigilant and committed to maintaining peace and security along Nigeria’s coastline, protecting both local and international maritime interests.
