A private security outfit known as Royal Fouche Security has successfully rescued 19 passengers who were kidnapped by sea pirates along the Isaka River in Rivers State. The victims had spent three weeks in captivity after being abducted while traveling to Bille in Degema Local Government Area.

According to reports, the passengers were traveling in a speedboat when they were intercepted by sea pirates who took them to an undisclosed location. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N100 million for their release.

The rescue operation was initiated after another victim, who had paid a N10 million ransom, alerted the Amanyanabo of the Source, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubo. Dokubo promptly mobilized his security outfit, popularly known as Amama Soldiers, to conduct the rescue mission.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Daerefa-a Christopher Braide, Dokubo revealed that one of the victims, identified as Corporal Salisu Ibrahim of the Nigerian Army, had been separated from the group by the kidnappers and remains unaccounted for.

Before handing the rescued victims over to operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Dokubo condemned the actions of the sea pirates, describing them as "barbaric and inhumane." He assured the public that those responsible for the kidnapping, many of whom fled during the rescue operation, would be tracked down and brought to justice.

"Rivers State will no longer serve as a haven for criminal elements operating along its waterways," Dokubo declared. He emphasized his commitment to restoring safety to the state's maritime routes and highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the Amama Soldiers and national security agencies.

Dokubo also promised similar success as was achieved along the once-dangerous Emohua/Kalabari road, suggesting a broader security initiative in the region.

The rescued individuals have been handed over to the appropriate security agencies for documentation and further action before being reunited with their families.