The incident highlights continuing efforts by security agencies to combat piracy and related crimes along Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways, a vital corridor for trade and inter-state travel in the Gulf of Guinea region.
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How joint security operation ended 11-day Calabar–Oron hostage ordeal
How joint security operation ended 11-day Calabar–Oron hostage ordeal
ABUJA – At least seventeen passengers who were abducted eleven days ago along the Calabar–Oron waterways have been rescued following a coordinated operation involving the Cross River State Government, security agencies, and local vigilante groups.
The rescue, confirmed in a statement signed by Mr. Bassey Asuquo, spokesperson for the Cross River State Government, said the victims were freed after sustained intelligence gathering and joint surveillance operations that lasted several days.
They are currently receiving medical treatment and psychological support at a government-owned facility in Calabar.
Preliminary reports revealed that the victims were among about thirty passengers aboard a Sea Express Limited boat travelling from Calabar, Cross River State, to Oron, Akwa Ibom State, when gunmen attacked mid-sea penultimate Thursday.
The assailants reportedly diverted the vessel to a creek community before abducting several passengers.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Information commended the State Security Adviser’s Office, the Nigerian Navy, and the Marine Police Unit for their resilience and tactical precision during the operation.
“This coordinated intervention demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the state government under His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, to the safety and security of all residents and travellers within our territorial boundaries,” the statement read.
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The Commissioner explained that the operation was carried out by a combined team of naval officers, local trackers, and anti-piracy units. He added that the rescue was achieved without payment of ransom, underscoring the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in the state.
Receiving the rescued passengers in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to secure the waterways and protect all lawful residents and visitors.
“Our waterways are critical to trade and tourism. We will not allow criminals to disrupt peace or threaten the lives of any law-abiding citizens. This rescue sends a strong message that Cross River will not be a safe haven for criminal elements,” he said.
How joint security operation ended 11-day Calabar–Oron hostage ordeal
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Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
The Delta State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu in Anambra State, arresting key suspects linked to the case.
Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe disclosed on Sunday that operatives of the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), acting on credible intelligence, apprehended 25-year-old security guard Godwin Mngumi on 6 December 2025. Mngumi allegedly murdered the retired judge, and authorities also recovered the deceased’s mobile phone from him.
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According to Edafe, Mngumi confessed to inviting a friend, Nnaji Obalum, and another accomplice — who remains at large — to the residence where the crime was committed. Obalum has since been arrested, while a manhunt continues for the third suspect.
The arrests mark a major step forward in the effort to bring all perpetrators of the high-profile murder to justice.
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
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Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
The Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has made significant strides in its ongoing campaign against cultism and violent crimes. Recent operations, including an intelligence-led arms recovery in Abraka and the arraignment of 18 suspects, highlight the command’s intensified enforcement efforts across the state.
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Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe said on Saturday that the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), under ASP Julius Robinson, executed a successful operation on December 6, 2025, targeting cult-related activities and the proliferation of illegal firearms. Acting on credible intelligence, officers conducted a coordinated search at No. 2 Umeghe Community, Abraka, the residence of Isiakpere Friday, 67.
The move underscores the Delta State Police’s commitment to restoring safety and security in communities affected by criminal and cult-related activities.
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
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Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
The Nigerian Army has temporarily frozen both statutory and voluntary retirements for certain officers, including Generals, following the nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. The decision aims to bolster manpower as the country faces a surge in kidnappings and worsening insecurity.
The move comes after more than 600 abduction cases were reported in November 2025, including the kidnapping of over 300 students in Niger State, 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and 25 students in Kebbi State.
An internal circular dated December 3 and signed by Maj. Gen. E. I. Okoro on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff cited provisions in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service Officers (HTACOS) 2024, allowing service extensions “in the interest of the service.” The memo explains that officers usually retire upon reaching age limits, completing 35 years of service, or failing promotion/conversion boards, but these rules can be overridden during national emergencies.
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The suspension affects officers who have:
- Failed promotion examinations three times
- Been passed over repeatedly at promotion boards
- Reached rank age limits
- Failed conversion boards thrice
- Completed 35 years of service
Officers granted extensions will remain in service but will not be eligible for further promotions, courses, secondments, or extra-regimental appointments. Those unwilling to continue can still proceed with standard exit procedures.
Commanders have been instructed to communicate the directive and manage morale across units, with the policy to be reviewed once national security conditions improve.
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
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