Nineteen people abducted along the Bille-Bonny waterways in Rivers State have been rescued after spending 21 days in captivity. The victims included eight students sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination. They were kidnapped on May 6, 2025, when sea pirates attacked two boats traveling to Bille in Degema Local Government Area.
After the abduction, the kidnappers contacted the families, demanding ₦100 million in ransom. One victim paid ₦10 million before gaining early release and later helped identify the kidnappers’ hideout.
The rescue took place on the evening of May 26, led by Royal Fouchee Security Services, also known as the Amama Soldiers. The group, headed by former militant leader and traditional ruler Asari-Dokubo, launched the operation after being contacted by the Department of State Services.
According to Asari-Dokubo, the victims were held in poor conditions without proper food. Their ATM cards and phones were seized, and funds were withdrawn from their accounts. Boat driver Victor Akinloye, one of the victims, described how they were beaten and stripped naked. After his release, he assisted the team by recognizing the location of the camp.
During the operation, one suspect named Victor Friday was arrested. He claimed he didn’t participate in the abduction and only ran errands at the camp. He identified the gang leader as a man called Kentebe from Bayelsa State, who is now on the run.
Concerns remain for a missing soldier, Lance Corporal Salihu Ibrahim, who was reportedly on one of the boats. Only his uniform and ID card have been found, raising fears about his safety.
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed the rescue. She credited the successful operation to a joint effort between the police and the local security team.
