- The Bonny Local Government Chairman, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, said security agencies were involved in the rescue effort
Suspected pirates have hijacked a passenger boat carrying 20 travellers along the Bonny-Okrika waterways in Rivers State, Nigeria.
Local authorities say nine passengers have been rescued, while a search operation is underway for the remaining 11.
The Bonny Local Government Chairman, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, said security agencies were involved in the rescue effort. According to a statement from her media aide, the boat driver had deviated from approved routes and used a prohibited channel.
The statement read: “A passenger boat comprising 20 persons en route to Bonny was intercepted by sea pirates near Isaka in Okrika Local Government Area. However, nine passengers have been rescued and returned to Port Harcourt through the timely intervention of security operatives.”
The authorities have urged calm, assuring that efforts are being made to locate the missing passengers and enhance security along the waterways.
The Rivers State chapter of the Maritime Union Workers of Nigeria (MUWN) has expressed concern over the persistent threat of piracy in the region.
The chairman of the union’s Rivers Commercial District, Isreal Wariboko, said criminals frequently change tactics to evade security forces.
“They operate strategically,” he said. “When they realise security is concentrated in one area, they move to another. They monitor security activities and strike when they see an opportunity.”
Wariboko called for increased security patrols, warning that as long as pirates find refuge in the mangrove swamps, attacks will continue.
The latest incident has been reported to the police, with investigations ongoing.