NIGERIA – Ambika Crew Members Rescued from Captivity by Nigerian Authorities

THREE FOREIGN SAILORS (2 RUSSIAN, 1 INDIAN) RESCUED FOLLOWING A MILITARY OPERATION ON JANUARY 5TH

Picture showing the Nigeria-flagged hopper dredger vessel AMBIKA.

Three Expatriates Abducted by Suspected Pirates Rescued

Daily Trust learnt that a good number of the sea pirates involved in the abduction of the expatriates and killing of four naval ratings were killed during a joint rescue operation on Sunday. Discreet government sources from Delta and Bayelsa confirmed the development late Monday evening, revealing that two Russians and an Indian who were taken captive were rescued unhurt.

The vessel, MV AMBIKA, believed to be working for the international oil firm, where the expatriates were abducted, was also recovered, our correspondent further gathered Military sources who also confirmed the rescue of the expatriates said: “They were rescued yesterday (Sunday). Many of the sea pirates were killed during the process. The vessel has been seen as well”.

Investigations revealed that governments of Delta and Bayelsa, in collaboration with military authorities had reached an understanding to keep the issue secret. “The incident actually happened at Sigbene near Agge. Both state governments have been collaborating with the military to ensure the rescue of the victims. An agreement was also reached between them to keep mum over the issue upon their release. This is a top security issue. They were rescued unhurt”, a top government source confided.

Recall that four naval ratings were shot dead while others sustained injuries when suspected sea pirates around the border coastal communities of Bayelsa and Delta States attacked an international oil vessel. The deceased naval personnel, drawn from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta, were said to be escorting the vessel carrying the kidnapped expatriates when they were ambushed by the armed pirates. Sequel to the military reinforcement, tension brewed around the communities where the pirates attack happened, compelling many of the residents of the riverine communities of Bayelsa and Delta States, particularly those in Burutu and Ekeremor LGAs, to flee their homes for fear of military invasion.

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