Troops Rescue 18 Passengers Hijacked by Pirates
Troops of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully rescued 18 passengers, including 2 infants, following a hijacking incident on a passenger boat traveling from Nigeria to Cameroon on 11 January 2026.
A statement issued by Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director, Public Relations of the Brigade, said it received a distress call that suspected sea pirates, operating in two speed boats and a wooden boat, hijacked a passenger boat moving from Cameroon to Nigeria.
The passengers were kidnapped along Kombo Fishing Port within Cameroon waterways.
The troops deployed at Ikang responded swiftly and pursued the criminals, resulting in an exchange of fire that caused one of the pirates’ speed boats to capsize. The pirates abandoned their victims and fled into the surrounding creeks and all the abducted passengers were rescued unharmed.
The Brigade Commander, Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, commended the troops for their prompt and professional response.
“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.
The Brigade Commanderurged members of the public to provide meaningful information that can assist the troops in effectively combating criminal activities across Cross River State, emphasizing that community cooperation is essential for maintaining security.
