The people of Bille community in Degema local government area of Rivers State, have expressed deep concern over the continued abductions of their residents along the Bonny/Bille waterways, following the recent release of 19 kidnapped travellers.
The victims, who were held captive for 21 days by sea pirates, recounted harrowing experiences of torture and starvation. They were kidnapped near the Isaka River while en route to Bille Kingdom by armed men and taken to an undisclosed location.
“We were tortured and beaten daily. We survived by God’s grace,” one of the victims told our correspondent.
“We were starved for nearly two weeks. We had nothing to eat but raw garri and dry pepper, which we licked and chewed just to stay alive. We drank dirty water and endured extreme suffering.”
A teenage victim, who had been traveling to sit for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), shared his anguish over missing the crucial examination.
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“I’m heartbroken. I spent money preparing for WASSCE, new uniforms, sandals and now I’ve lost that chance because I was kidnapped. I’ve become so thin, I barely recognize myself,” he lamented.
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) Bille Clan Chairman, Andy Kio, while reacting to the development, called on security agencies to profile and engage local vigilante groups in coastal communities to assist in combating insecurity in the region.
“First, we thank God for the safe return of our people. For nearly three weeks, we lived in fear for the lives of our sons and daughters, many of whom are school-aged,” Kio said.
He expressed appreciation to Royal Fouche Security Services, also known as the Amama Soldiers, for their role in the victims’ rescue.
He also thanked media organizations and stakeholders who helped draw attention to the incident.
“We appeal to both the federal and state governments to improve security along our waterways. These kidnappings have become a regular and troubling occurrence,” he added.
The community has reiterated calls for immediate and sustained action to secure water routes and protect residents from further acts of piracy and violence.
