By ZAKAA LAZARUS
Personnel of the Nigerian Navy has successfully rescued a kidnapped victim, Mr Benedict Eze, in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, following sustained security operations by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) BONNY.
The victim, who was abducted on 23 March 2026 at Aganya Community, was rescued by naval personnel at Coconut Jetty after he was abandoned by his captors around the Opuoma waterside due to intensified operational pressure since the incident was first reported with sustained intelligence-led patrols, technological enablers, as well as coordinated action on land and around the creeks to block any possible escape routes.
In a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho said the sustained action mounted by security forces during the search efforts eventually paid off with the abandonment of the kidnap victim.
The statement said the victim was subsequently evacuated to the Naval Base medical facility for evaluation and debriefing and was safely reunited with his family.
He said the recovery highlights the effectiveness of coordinated maritime and land-based security operations conducted by the Nigerian Navy in collaboration with other security agencies to deny criminal elements freedom of movement within the Bonny–Port Harcourt waterways and adjoining creeks.
Captain Abiodun said the development also aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to intensify operational efforts against criminal activities within the maritime domain.
The statement averred the Nigerian Navy remains resolute in sustaining proactive patrols and intelligence-driven operations to enhance security, protect lives and property, and bring perpetrators of criminal acts to justice.
