A group of sea pirates attacked a speedboat in Rivers State, Nigeria, killing a famous fashion designer, Hope Georgewill. The incident happened on March 26, 2025, along the New Calabar River in Degema Local Government Area.

The speedboat, named “H.J. Miracle,” was traveling from Elem-Kalabari to Port Harcourt when the pirates ambushed it. The boat had two powerful Yamaha outboard engines (85hp and 75hp). The criminals kidnapped the boat operator, Lucky Isokariari, along with two others, including Hope Georgewill.

After the attack, the pirates took the victims and the boat to an unknown location. Later, they contacted the boat’s owner through the operator’s phone, demanding a ransom of N10 million for their release.

Despite efforts to secure their release, the pirates killed Hope Georgewill on Friday afternoon. His death has caused sadness among his friends and acquaintances, who have shared emotional tributes on social media.

The incident has raised concerns about security on waterways in Rivers State, with many calling for stronger efforts to prevent such attacks.