Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled a suspected kidnap attempt by sea pirates along the Oron–Ibaka waterways in Akwa Ibom State, rescuing 37 traders and crew members without casualties.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 3:35 p.m. on Tuesday at Akpa Aron Creek in Oron Local Government Area.

The sources said troops of the 2 Brigade operating under Sector 4 of Operation Delta Safe responded swiftly to a distress call over a suspected kidnap incident involving sea pirates operating along the waterway.

On sighting the troops, the suspected pirates, who were travelling in a speedboat, reportedly engaged the soldiers before abandoning their kidnap attempt and fleeing the scene under pressure.

The troops successfuly rescued 37 traders and crew members who were aboard a wooden market boat targeted by the attackers.

The rescued victims were subsequently escorted safely to the Oron Jetty, where they were handed over for further necessary action.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to secure Nigeria’s inland waterways and protect residents and commercial activities from criminal elements operating in the coastal region. (Zagazola)