Less than three weeks after four soldiers and a policeman were killed by suspected militants in Nembe, Bayelsa state, two monarchs were among three people kidnapped on Wednesday, as sea pirates carried out an attack on the Ogbia-Brass waterway notorious for piracy.

The kidnapped monarchs were identified as Blessing Wagio and Isaac Akono-Igolo of Okpoama chiefdom of the state. The third victim is an unidentified security man.

The police spokesperson in the state, Asinim Butswat, confirmed the incident but said he was yet to get more information.

The attack took place around 2pm at Kiberibio, as the victims travelled from Ogbia to Brass, a witness said. The witness, however, said some passengers, including a naval officer, escaped unhurt.