Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have foiled a planned kidnapping operation in Oron and recovered arms, ammunition, and two speedboats from a suspected criminal camp along the Calabar–Oron Channel.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Uyo. She said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence on a planned abduction in the Oron axis.
According to the statement, operatives of the Marine Police, Oron, in a joint operation with Marine Hunters, stormed the suspected camp at about 6:05am on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
Items recovered during the raid include one Jojeef English pump-action gun, two cartridges, a white rope suspected to be for criminal use, two speedboats, three 200HP outboard engines, and one 15HP outboard engine.
DSP John said the recovered items have been secured for documentation and further investigation, adding that the operation is part of the Command’s intelligence-led strategy to dismantle criminal networks before they strike.
She noted that the Command is particularly focused on preventing criminals from using the state’s waterways as hideouts and escape routes. As a result, Marine Police have intensified surveillance across strategic waterways and coastal communities.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, commended the operatives for their professionalism and for acting swiftly on actionable intelligence. He also praised the Marine Hunters for their support and courage during the operation.
CP Azare warned that Akwa Ibom would not be used as a safe haven or escape corridor for kidnappers and other violent criminals. He urged residents, boat operators, and fishermen to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements on the waterways to security agencies.
The Police Command assured the public that the waterways and coastal areas remain calm and peaceful following the operation, and reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
Community leaders in Oron Local Government Area welcomed the operation, saying it has restored confidence among fishermen and traders who rely on the Calabar–Oron Channel for their daily activities. They called for sustained patrols to prevent criminals from regrouping in the riverine areas.
The command commended the people for thier constant support and urge them to relocate tangible information to the force to foil illegal plans and plot by pirates and other individuals who tries to cause distractions in the area.
