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The Ibeno Clan Council in Akwa Ibom state has demanded a sustained crackdown on sea pirates operating along the waterways and coastal communities of Ibeno. It however commended the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Navy for rescuing abducted fishermen and a Ghanaian national.
The council said the September 30, 2026 joint security operation, which also led to the recovery of equipment allegedly stolen from the fishermen, underscored the need for sustained surveillance and coordinated security operations to rid the waterways of criminal elements.
Speaking on behalf of the council, its secretary, Chief Okon Udofia, described the operation as timely and courageous, noting that it saved the victims and demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration among security agencies.
He, however, urged the Police and the Navy to intensify patrols and deploy intelligence-driven operations across the waterways, creeks and coastal communities to prevent further attacks.
“While we commend the security forces for this successful operation, this should not be the end. We urge the Navy and the Police to intensify their efforts to make the waterways and coastal communities unsafe for criminals but safe for lawful businesses,” Udofia said.
He commended residents for providing timely intelligence to security operatives, stressing that community participation remained critical to preventing attacks, identifying criminal networks and ensuring that perpetrators were brought to justice.
The council also acknowledged the support of the chairman of Ibeno local government area, Hon. (Mrs) Glory Ekah, for peace, security and residents’ welfare, while calling for stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and fishermen.
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