Bille Waterways Student Kidnapping: 19 Rescued After 21-Day Ordeal in Rivers State

By CHUKWUMA OFILI

Eight WASSCE Candidates Among Victims of Student Abduction in Rivers State

Bille Waterways Student Kidnapping: A total of nineteen hostages, including eight students preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), have been rescued after enduring 21 harrowing days in captivity. The incident, which has shocked the nation, is now being referred to as the Bille waterways student kidnapping.

The students and other passengers were kidnapped on May 6, 2025, when suspected sea pirates launched an attack on two passenger boats travelling through the Bille waterways in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. The brazen assault left families devastated and the education of the WASSCE candidates hanging in the balance.

Victims Rescued by Local Vigilante Group Led by Asari-Dokubo

The Bille waterways victims were freed on Monday evening by a local security group known as the Royal Fouchee Security Services, popularly called the Amama Soldiers. This group is led by Alhaji Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, a former Niger Delta militant leader and traditional ruler of Torusaramapiri community in Degema.

Speaking to the press, Asari-Dokubo confirmed the Bille waterways rescue operation began on Sunday, after his team was contacted by the Department of State Services (DSS) for assistance. He disclosed that the victims were kept in deplorable conditions, suffering from hunger, torture, and intimidation throughout their 21-day captivity.

“These people were kept in terrible conditions. They were starved and badly treated. One of them, who had paid N10 million to secure his release earlier, helped us identify the kidnappers’ hideout,” he said.

Pirates Demanded N100 Million Ransom for Release

Following the abduction of the Bille waterways students, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N100 million from the families of the victims. The abductors reportedly made direct contact with relatives, intensifying the trauma.

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One of the victims, who was released earlier after paying a ransom of N10 million, played a crucial role in identifying the location where the rest of the captives were held. His cooperation with the vigilante group and security operatives proved instrumental in successfully tracking and confronting the pirates.

Student Abduction in Rivers State Raises Alarm on Regional Security

The student abduction in Rivers State has once again raised concerns about safety in Nigeria’s riverine and coastal communities. Stakeholders are calling for a more robust and coordinated response to piracy and waterway insecurity, especially during examination periods when student movement increases.

The incident highlights the vulnerability of communities in the Niger Delta, where waterways are often the primary mode of transport, but remain prone to criminal attacks due to inadequate security presence.

Arrests Made, More Suspects Still on the Run

During the rescue mission of the Bille waterways, security operatives arrested a suspect identified as Victor Friday, who admitted staying in the kidnappers’ camp but denied participating in the actual abduction. He claimed he was only used for errands.

Friday also named a man called Kentebe from Bayelsa State as the leader of the gang, who is now on the run. Security agencies have launched a manhunt to track down Kentebe and other fleeing accomplices.

Soldier Missing, Feared Dead

In a disturbing twist, Asari-Dokubo revealed that Lance Corporal Salihu Ibrahim, a soldier who was among those in the attacked boats, is still missing. Only his uniform and identity card were recovered, raising fears that he may have been killed by the kidnappers. Authorities have yet to confirm his status officially.

Survivors Share Traumatic Experiences

One of the rescued victims of the Bille waterways students, Victor Akinloye, who also served as a boat driver, recounted the horrifying treatment he and others endured. He said they were beaten, stripped naked, and had their phones and ATM cards confiscated. The kidnappers went as far as withdrawing funds directly from their bank accounts.

Akinloye, however, played a heroic role by recognizing the topography of the camp after his release. He later guided the rescue team to the location, aiding in the operation’s success.

Police Confirm Rescue Operation

Confirming the rescue, Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, said the operation was a joint effort between the police and the local security outfit.

“Yes, I can confirm they were rescued on Monday evening through a joint effort by the police and the local security group,” she stated.

Urgent Need for Improved Waterway Security

The Bille waterways student kidnapping has ignited national outrage and renewed calls for enhanced maritime security in southern Nigeria. The safety of students and ordinary travelers on the nation’s inland waters must become a top priority for both federal and state governments.

Education stakeholders, human rights advocates, and security analysts are demanding swift action to protect riverine communities and prevent further kidnappings. More investments in waterway patrols, surveillance, and community policing are crucial to ensuring lasting peace and safety.

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