Troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have rescued 18 passengers, including two infants, following the hijacking of a passenger boat en route from Nigeria to Cameroon.
Yemi Sokoyaz Major Assistant Director, Army Public Relations Headquarters, 13 Brigade Nigerian Army in a statement said the incident occurred on January 11, 2026, after the Army received a distress call reporting that suspected sea pirates, operating in two speedboats and a wooden boat, had hijacked a passenger vessel along the Kombo Fishing Port within Cameroonian waterways. The attackers reportedly abducted all passengers on board.
Acting swiftly on the alert, troops of 13 Brigade deployed from Ikang and pursued the criminals. During the operation, an exchange of fire ensued, causing one of the pirates’ speedboats to capsize. The assailants subsequently abandoned their victims and escaped into the surrounding creeks.
All 18 passengers were rescued unharmed.
Commending the troops for their prompt and professional response, the Commander of 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, said the operation demonstrated the courage, professionalism, and commitment of the soldiers to safeguarding lives and securing the waterways.
“This successful rescue operation demonstrates the courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of our men and women to protect lives and ensure the safety of our waterways. We will continue to dominate our operational environment and safeguard our citizens against all criminal elements,” he said.
Brigadier General Alimikhena also urged members of the public to provide useful information to assist security forces in combating criminal activities across Cross River State, stressing that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining security.
The operation, according to the Army, underscores the continued commitment of 13 Brigade to securing lives and maintaining safety across regional waterways.
