The Nigerian Navy has rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered several stolen outboard engines during an operation against sea robbery and kidnapping in the general area of Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State.

The operation was conducted on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, according to a statement shared on Thursday signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.

The statement said the operation followed “credible information on the activities of suspected sea robbers and kidnappers targeting fishermen and forcibly taking away fishing boats and outboard engines.”

“In response, the Nigerian Navy Ship JUBILEE Maritime Quick Response Team, Ibeno, swiftly mobilised to the area to counter the threat,” it added.

The Navy said the operation resulted in the rescue of the two victims and recovery of several stolen outboard engines, describing the outcome as part of its efforts to protect lives and legitimate maritime activities on the nation’s waterways.

“The successful operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s sustained commitment to Search and Rescue, the protection of lives and the security of legitimate maritime activities across Nigeria’s waters,” the statement said.

The Navy also urged coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to provide timely information to security agencies, saying, “The operation also demonstrates the importance of credible intelligence and community support in enhancing maritime security. The Nigerian Navy therefore encourages coastal communities, fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to continue providing timely information that could assist in preventing criminal activities and responding rapidly to persons in distress.”

It said it would continue to conduct “proactive patrols, Search and Rescue operations, and intelligence-driven interventions aimed at protecting lives and property while denying criminal elements freedom of action in the nation’s waterways.”