From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
Fear has gripped Bayelsa’s Southern Ijaw Local Government Area following the kidnapping of four women traders by suspected sea pirates on Wednesday, April 30, along the Lobia/Foropa waterways.
The women were en route to Foropa when their boat was attacked shortly after departing Swali waterfront in Yenagoa, sparking panic among residents reliant on the waterways for economic activities.
A police source confirmed that a tactical team has been deployed to rescue the women, who were taken to an unknown location after the pirates dispossessed about 12 passengers of their valuables.
Hon. Selekaye Victor-Ben, the lawmaker representing Southern Ijaw Constituency IV and Chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, condemned the attack, stating, “This cowardly attack on innocent citizens, who were simply trying to earn their livelihoods, is not only an affront to our shared humanity but also a grave threat to the peace and economic well-being of our constituency.”
Victor-Ben urged the Bayelsa State Government and the Nigerian Police Force to secure the women’s immediate release, adding, “It is imperative that no stone is left unturned in apprehending these criminal elements and bringing them to justice.”
He called for enhanced surveillance and patrols, emphasising, “The people of Southern Ijaw deserve to traverse our waterways without fear of molestation or attack.”