Suspected pirates hijacked a passenger boat carrying 20 travellers along the Bonny-Okrika waterways in Rivers State on Thursday, February 6, 2025, near Isaka in Okrika Local Government Area.
Bonny Local Government Chairman, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, confirmed the incident in a statement released by his media aide, Boma Waribor, on Friday. Nine passengers were rescued through the combined efforts of security agencies, while a search is underway for the remaining 11.
Claude-Wilcox explained that the boat driver violated regulations by taking a route through Kilometer 10, a restricted area for commercial boats.
“Security updates indicate that the passenger boat was intercepted by pirates near Isaka. However, nine passengers have been found and safely returned to Port Harcourt with the swift intervention of security forces. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the other 12,” the statement said.
The Chairman urged the public and victims’ families to remain calm, assuring them that the Bonny Local Government Council is working closely with neighboring LGAs and security agencies to resolve the situation.
