The Cross River State Police Command has stepped up security around the state’s waterways as part of efforts to protect fishermen, riverine communities and other people whose businesses depend on the waterways.
The move is being carried out under Operation Velvet Marine, an ongoing police operation aimed at improving security across Cross River’s maritime areas.
The State Marine Police held a stakeholders’ meeting on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the Dolphin Marine Base in Calabar. The meeting brought together 21 representatives from fishing settlements, including Tiger, Efik, Nsere, Ikpaedok, Natonda and Okon Beaches.
During the meeting, the police and community representatives discussed the safety of the waterways, the welfare of fishermen and the need for better cooperation between riverine communities and security agencies.
The police urged people living and working around the waterways to remain watchful and report suspicious movements or activities to the authorities.
The Command said communities could continue with lawful community-based vigilance while working closely with recognised security structures, the Marine Police and other security agencies.
The fishermen and other stakeholders also raised concerns about their safety, welfare and activities on the waterways. According to the police, the concerns have been noted for further assessment and necessary follow-up with the relevant authorities.
The Command also stressed that complaints and information received from members of the public would be properly verified before any conclusion or further action is taken.
To make it easier for people in the riverine communities to seek help during emergencies, the police shared its emergency contact numbers, 07041777060 and 07053355415.
Fishermen and other maritime workers were advised to use the numbers to report distress situations, suspicious activities, threats and other information that may require police attention.
The police said quick information from residents remains important in preventing crime and helping security agencies respond to threats on the waterways.
The Cross River Police Command said it would continue with visibility patrols, intelligence-led operations, community engagement and cooperation with other security agencies across the state’s maritime areas.
The Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, also called on riverine communities to remain law-abiding, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies.
It assured fishermen and other legitimate maritime operators of its commitment to protecting lives, property and their livelihoods across Cross River State.
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