Police Order Joint Operations After Pirate Attack on Calabar–Oron Waterway

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Auwal Musa Mohammed, has ordered immediate joint security operations following a pirate attack on a passenger ferry along the Calabar–Oron waterways on April 16, 2026, in which about 15 passengers were abducted.

AIG Directs Coordinated Security Response
Mohammed directed the Commissioners of Police in Cross River State, Rashid B. Afegbua, and Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, to activate a coordinated, intelligence-driven inter-state security framework to secure the release of the victims and arrest the perpetrators.

The directive calls for collaboration between both state police commands, the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies to strengthen surveillance along the waterways and dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.

Rescue of Victims Declared Top Priority
The AIG instructed the police chiefs to set aside jurisdictional boundaries and deploy all available tactical and intelligence resources to ensure the safe rescue of those abducted.

He warned that security forces would pursue those responsible for the attack until they are brought to justice.

Police Assure Residents of Safety Measures
Condemning the attack, Mohammed reassured residents and maritime operators in the affected states of the police’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

He urged the public to remain calm and report suspicious activities, particularly in coastal and riverine communities.

Commitment to Transparency
The Zone 6 Command said it would provide updates on the operation as it progresses to maintain public confidence and prevent panic.

Police authorities added that there would be no safe haven for criminals within the zone.