The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has started search rescue operations for the abducted 12 crew members onboard ‘MV Glarus’ which was hijacked off Bonny Island in Rivers State to ensure that they are found and released unconditionally.
The Director General of the Agency, Dr. Dakuku Peterside stated that NIMASA is cooperating with the Forward Operation Base (FOB) and the Falcon Eye of the Nigerian Navy along with other relevant security Agencies.
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Dr. Dakuku condemned the act and noted that the Agency is saddened about the attack. He also assured that NIMASA ‘will not leave any stone unturned in the rescue mission’.
The issue of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea is a challenge we acknowledge and we are determined to tackle it head-on. We will continue to collaborate with the Nigerian Navy and other relevant partners to ensure we bring it to a halt. Zero tolerance to piracy and all forms of illegalities on our nation’s waterways is our goal
NIMASA recently adopted total a maritime security strategy which includes investment on intelligence and partnership with relevant security Agencies to curb maritime related crimes.
It also include the establishment of Nigeria’s response capabilities with the use of Fast Intervention Vessels and the review of its laws, especially the anti-piracy bill which will give the Agency the legal backing to prosecute issues relating to piracy on our waters.
