Rivers Boat Attack: Police Vow Action After 13 Passengers Abducted by Pirates

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of 19 passengers in a series of pirate attacks on three boats along the Isaka River in Okrika Local Government Area on Tuesday.

Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, said 13 passengers were initially reported kidnapped, but further investigation is ongoing to ensure the victims’ rescue and arrest of the suspects.

Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union in Rivers, Isreal Pepple, said the victims were aboard boats headed to Bonny Island and Bille, with pirates also carting away goods worth millions.

“With the information we gathered, it was 13 persons, including the driver. The other boat was going to Bonny with goods; six people were kidnapped from that boat. So, six plus 13 makes 19,” Pepple explained.

He warned that the union may suspend operations if attacks persist, describing the kidnappings as a growing business for criminals.

“We will not be far from downing our tools to attract the government to take action,” he said.

Pepple also lamented the idle military gunboats donated by the state government, blaming lack of fuel and logistics for their non-deployment.

“The gunboats are there close to this office, but no logistics are provided for them,” he added.

Authorities have promised swift action to restore safety along the waterways.