Against the outrage trailing the recent incessant attacks on travelers utilizing the waterways, especially, the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route, the Rivers State Government, affected local governments, and security agencies have launched a coordinated response aimed at checkmating the menace.

The Bonny Local Government announced this on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 via a statement by its Chief Press Secretary, Boma Waribor, saying tht it was working together with neighboring local governments, the State Government, boat drivers and owners as well as security agencies to formulate and implement comprehensive strategies to curb these pirate activities.

The statement reads in part:

“The Bonny Local Government wishes to address the recent surge in sea pirate attacks along the Bonny – Port Harcourt Water route. These attacks have continued to threaten the safety of our waterways and disrupt the livelihoods of our residents, as well as others passing through.

“It is important to note that the affected waterway in the recent attack lies beyond the jurisdiction of our local government marine police, posing challenges to our immediate response capabilities, however, the safety and security of our citizens and all who traverse these waters remain our top priority.

“Already, we have initiated collaborative efforts with neighboring Local Governments, the State Government, boat drivers and owners as well as Security Agencies. We are actively working together to formulate and implement comprehensive strategies to curb these piracy activities. Displinary measures shall be enforced on boat drivers and owners who refuse to abide by laid down temporary safety measures.

“We urge all residents and users of the Bonny – Port Harcourt Water Way to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities with the numbers below, as the safety of our waterways is a shared responsibility, and with collective effort and collaboration, we can ensure that our waters remain safe and secure for all.

“It should be noted that the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, Dame Hon Anengi Barasua Claude-Wilcox, DSSRS, JP., remains committed to protecting our citizens and upholding the rule of law. The Council will continue to work closely with neighboring Local Governments, the State Government, and all relevant security agencies to address this threat and bring the perpetrators of these criminal acts to justice.

The statement contained telephone numbers of the various security agencies for emergency calls and quick response: Forward Operating Base, Bonny: 07046646664, 08029268244; ⁠NNS Pathfinder: 07034688112, 07034968517; ⁠Onne: 07037911544, 08039435437; and Marine Police: 07035148985, 08038934466