The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar, Auwal Musa Mohammed, has issued a firm directive for immediate and sustained joint security operations following the recent pirate attack on a passenger ferry along the Calabar–Oron waterways on April 16, 2026, during which about fifteen (15) persons were abducted.
In a decisive response to this heinous act, the AIG has mandated the Commissioners of Police in Cross River State, Rashid B. Afegbua psc,mnips and Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare fsi, to immediately activate a robust, intelligence-driven and coordinated inter-state security framework aimed at the swift rescue of the victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators.
The directive emphasizes seamless collaboration between both State Commands, in synergy with the Nigerian Navy and other relevant security agencies, to dominate the waterways, dismantle criminal networks, and restore confidence in maritime safety across the zone.
The AIG unequivocally charged the Commissioners of Police to set aside all jurisdictional limitations and operational boundaries, and to deploy all available tactical and intelligence assets towards achieving this mission. He stressed that the rescue of the abducted victims remains a top operational priority, and warned that the Command will pursue the perpetrators relentlessly until justice is served.
While condemning the attack in strong terms, the AIG reassured residents and maritime operators in both states that the Nigeria Police Force under Zone 6 remains resolute, proactive, and fully committed to safeguarding lives and property. He urged members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and to promptly report any suspicious activities, particularly along coastal and riverine communities.
Furthermore, the Zone 6 Headquarters reiterated its commitment to transparency and timely communication as operations progress, in order to sustain public trust and mitigate undue tension.
The Zone assures that there will be no safe haven for criminals within Zone 6.
Signed:
*DSP. Jefferson Osupe, ANIPR, ANISMA*
Zonal Police Public Relations Officer
*For* the Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 6 headquarters Calabar.
20/3/2026
