4th November 2025 By Rismadarvoice
A suspected militant linked to sea piracy and kidnapping in Akwa Ibom waterways has been arrested in Ibaka axis of Mbo Local Government Area of the State.
The suspect, 27-year-old Samuel Geofrey, from Atakpere community in Ekeremo Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was arrested in the early hours of November 3, 2025, during a joint operation by the police and marine hunters.
Briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Uyo on Tuesday, Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare disclosed that the suspect confessed to being part of a piracy ring operating on Ibaka waterways and further revealed that his firearm was being held by a traditional ruler, Kingdom Bane, Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi fishing community.
Azare said Police operatives acted immediately on the intelligence and moved into the fishing settlement. However, the village head fled on sighting the security team.
A search of his makeshift residence led to the recovery of several marine engines, boat parts, generators, household appliances, sanitary fittings and other valuables suspected to have been stolen from travelers along the maritime corridor.
Recovered exhibits include one 40HP engine, two 15HP engines, one 8HP engine, four power heads, four gearboxes, four propellers, four engine covers, a Snow Sea deep freezer, three generators, three brand-new toilet seats, two brand-new toilet sinks, a sewing machine, 14 empty drums, a 3kg gas cylinder, assorted boat parts and various household items.
Police also recovered a bag containing the personal effects of Chibuike Vincent Awah of Onitsha, Anambra State, including his ID card and NIN slip, strengthening suspicions of targeted attacks on travelers.
According to the Commissioner, Geofrey is currently in custody, while a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing village head, who is now a person of interest in the piracy investigation.
