Kayode Egbetokun, has deployed six gunboats to the Rivers State Police Command to enhance security along the state’s waterways. The move comes in response to rising cases of sea piracy and armed robbery, particularly affecting residents of Bonny Kingdom.
During the official handover in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, IGP Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Ali Mohammed Ali, emphasized the urgent need to curb criminal activities in the region. He noted that the police leadership received numerous complaints from Bonny residents about increasing threats on the waterways.
“The office of the Inspector-General of Police was inundated with complaints from people of Bonny concerning sea piracy and armed robbery along the waterways,” DIG Ali stated.
The deployment of the gunboats is part of a broader strategy to improve maritime security and protect local businesses and commuters who rely on water transport. The Rivers State Police Command is expected to intensify patrols and respond swiftly to security threats in the area.
Residents of Bonny and other riverine communities have long called for stronger security measures to tackle the menace of piracy. With these additional resources, authorities hope to restore safety and boost economic activities in the region.
The IGP assured the public of the police force’s commitment to maintaining law and order while urging local communities to cooperate with security agencies to achieve lasting peace.