Troops of the Nigerian Army successfully rescued eight passengers who were abducted from a commercial boat along the Ikang–Cameroon waterways in Cross River State, following a rapid security operation.
The victims, comprising six adults and two minors, were seized by suspected militants after their boat was intercepted on the waterways.
Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, confirmed the rescue in a statement issued on Monday.
“Acting promptly on this information, the troops immediately deployed in pursuit of the perpetrators while simultaneously blocking possible escape routes and dominating the waterways.
“As a result of proactive response by the troops, the militants abandoned the victims at the Ini-Abasi Fishing Port and fled into the creeks towards the high sea. The abandoned victims were subsequently and successfully recovered by the troops,” Sokoya said.
He added that the rescued passengers were safely escorted to the Brigade’s location for necessary documentation before being released.
“No casualties were recorded during the operation. Troops continued patrols along the waterways to prevent regrouping or further criminal activities by the fleeing militants,” Sokoya explained.
The statement also included remarks from the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, who commended the troops for their “professionalism, speed and dedication to safeguarding lives and property.”
Alimikhena further expressed gratitude to the local community for providing “timely and reliable information that contributed to the success of the rescue mission.”
Reaffirming the Army’s commitment to securing the area, the Brigade Commander assured residents that “sustained patrols would continue to deny criminal elements freedom of action.”
