Cross River Police Command has launched a specialised maritime security operation, codenamed Operation Velvet Marine, to combat piracy, sea robbery, smuggling and other crimes on the state’s waterways.
The operation, launched on Friday at the Dolphin Marine Base, Calabar, is also aimed at strengthening surveillance and security ahead of the Ember Season.
Launching the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, said the initiative was in response to a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to strengthen maritime security and deny criminal elements freedom of action on the nation’s waterways.
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The directive charged Marine Police personnel to operate professionally and responsibly, while respecting human rights and maintaining close collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Ports Authority, National Inland Waterways Authority and other relevant security agencies.
The State Marine Officer, CSP Frankline Mbah, said the operation would involve daily visibility patrols, intelligence-led operations, joint patrols and engagement with riverine communities and other maritime stakeholders.
He said the operation would cover the waterways across the state, particularly the Calabar Channel, Qua River, Great Kwa River and adjoining creeks.
According to him, the initiative would provide enhanced security for commuters, fishermen and operators of legitimate maritime businesses, while improving the police response to threats within the maritime domain.
The command urged riverine communities and maritime stakeholders to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to assist in preventing and responding to maritime crimes.
The police said Operation Velvet Marine would be sustained throughout the Ember Season and beyond, assuring residents, maritime operators and visitors of its commitment to protecting lives and property and creating a secure environment for maritime commerce, livelihoods and investment in the state.