A passenger boat carrying 20 travelers was hijacked by sea pirates on Thursday along the Bonny-Okrika waterways in Rivers State. Reports indicate that the boat driver violated regulations by navigating through Kilometer 10, a restricted channel for commercial vessels.

Of the 21 passengers on board, nine have been rescued so far, while search operations are ongoing to locate the remaining 12 individuals. This incident highlights the persistent issue of pirate attacks in the region, despite efforts by the state government to curb such activities.

Anengi Claude-Wilcox, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, confirmed the incident and stated that the rescue operation was carried out in collaboration with security agencies. In a statement released by his media aide, Boma Waribor, on Friday, Claude-Wilcox said, “Security reports indicate that a passenger boat with 20 individuals traveling to Bonny was intercepted by sea pirates near Isaka in Okrika Local Government Area. Thanks to the swift response of government security operatives, nine passengers have been safely returned to Port Harcourt. Efforts are being intensified to rescue the remaining 12.”

Claude-Wilcox urged the families of the victims and the public to remain calm, assuring them that the government is working closely with neighboring local government areas and security agencies to address the situation.

Meanwhile, the Maritime Union Workers of Nigeria (MUWN), Rivers State chapter, has expressed deep concern over the recurring pirate attacks in the state. Isreal Wariboko, Chairman of the MUWN Rivers Commercial District, criticized the ongoing attacks despite government efforts to combat them. He explained that the pirates frequently change their tactics and operate from hidden locations within the mangroves, making it difficult to track them.

“These criminals are always monitoring security movements and exploit any gaps to carry out their operations. They often strike in areas where security presence is minimal or absent,” Wariboko said. He called for increased security patrols along the waterways to prevent further attacks and confirmed that the latest incident has been reported to the police.

Wariboko also noted that the union has dispatched search teams to assist in locating the missing passengers. “After our previous protests and the governor’s donation of gunboats, pirate attacks had reduced. However, the pirates have now adopted new strategies. We are investigating whether the boat followed the approved route or deviated. The marine police are handling the matter, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety of our waterways,” he added.