The Cross River State Police Command speaks on reports circulating about the alleged kidnapping of 12 passengers who boarded an engine boat destined for Cross River State.
The Command clarified that this unfortunate incident was not reported to the Marine Police Department or any unit of the Cross River State Command at the time of occurrence, thereby hindering immediate intervention.
Preliminary intelligence further indicates that the incident took place along Calabar/Oron Waterways, opposite James Creek, making it difficult for the Command to independently verify or act promptly on the report as of the time of the press interview.
Despite jurisdictional limitations, the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Olusegun Eyitayo Omosanyin, has directed the Marine Department to activate all necessary measures.
This includes intensified synergy with the Nigerian Navy, Akwa Ibom State Command and other relevant sister security agencies to ensure swift and coordinated efforts toward locating and rescuing the alleged victims.
The CP has engaged with the NN Victory Naval Commodore, A. Oride, on deep-sea rescue operations of the victims, because it is suspected the victim had been transported to a location in a high-sea deep water location which the Navy commander is currently combing.
The Command reassure the public that the protection of lives and property remains our constitutional mandate and top priority.
Furthermore, the dissemination of accurate and verified information through the Police Public Relations Department will continue to serve as a vital bridge between the Command and the good people of Cross River State.
The Police urged members of the Public to remain calm and vigilant while also cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can aid ongoing operations.
