Gunmen Abduct 15 Passengers on Calabar–Oron Waterways

At least 15 passengers have been abducted by gunmen along the Calabar–Oron waterways in southern Nigeria, in yet another incident highlighting growing insecurity on the country’s inland transport routes.

The attack occurred when armed men intercepted a passenger boat travelling between Calabar and Oron, forcibly taking occupants to an unknown destination.

Police authorities have confirmed the abduction, noting that a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving multiple security agencies, including the Navy, is currently underway.

Officials say efforts are ongoing to locate the victims and apprehend the perpetrators, although no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

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The latest incident adds to a troubling pattern of kidnappings along the Calabar–Oron waterways, which have become increasingly dangerous for commuters. In recent months, similar attacks have seen dozens of passengers abducted, underscoring the vulnerability of water transport routes in the region.

Residents have been forced to rely heavily on the waterways due to the poor condition of major road networks, particularly the Calabar–Itu highway, making them easy targets for criminal gangs operating in the area.

Security experts warn that the persistence of such attacks reflects a broader trend of kidnapping for ransom across Nigeria, with both road and water travellers increasingly at risk.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies as efforts intensify to rescue the abducted passengers and restore safety along the waterways.