CALABER, Nigeria - May 25, 2023 - An incident occurred at around 1800hrs local time when an unidentified group of pirates attacked and boarded a passenger boat transiting between Calabar and Oron on the Calabar River. According to local sources, fifteen people were kidnapped during the incident.
Fifteen people were reported to be kidnapped during the attack.
The authorities have been alerted and have initiated an operation to find the pirates and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped individuals.
This incident is the latest in a series of piracy and kidnapping incidents that have plagued the region for over a decade. The Gulf of Guinea, which covers the Nigerian coastline, has earned a notorious reputation as one of the world's most dangerous bodies of water due to persistent maritime piracy.
The surge in kidnapping and piracy can be traced back to the late 2000s, where a sharp increase in such incidents was observed.
Kidnappings, often for ransom, are frequently carried out by criminal gangs and have affected both locals and foreign nationals working in or visiting the area.
The economic conditions of the region, alongside high unemployment rates, are believed to have contributed to the increase in these criminal activities. The promise of ransom payments can present a strong incentive for these criminal gangs in a region beset by economic difficulties.
This incident serves as a harsh reminder of the ongoing issues in the region, drawing attention once again to the urgent need for a comprehensive and effective solution. Further updates will be reported as information becomes available.
•Source: EOS Risk Group
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