Troops of the Nigerian army’s 13 brigade, operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) on Monday, December 29, rescued eight kidnapped victims along the Ikang-Cameroon waterways in Cross River state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the 13 brigade’s spokesperson, Yemi Sokoya, said the operation was launched after troops in Ikang received actionable intelligence from residents about the interception of a commercial boat by militants and the abduction of its occupants, comprising six adults and two minors.
“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 statement read.
The abandoned victims were recovered unharmed and transported to the brigade’s base, where they were documented and subsequently reunited with their families.
No casualties were recorded during the rescue operation.
Troops have since intensified patrols in the affected waterways to prevent the perpetrators from regrouping or carrying out further criminal activities in the area.
Commending the operation, the commander of 13 brigade Nigerian army, Brig. Gen. P. O. Alimikhena praised the troops for their professionalism, rapid response, and dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
He also acknowledged the vital role played by members of the community, whose timely and credible information contributed significantly to the success of the mission.
Alimikhena reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to sustained offensive patrols and assured residents that security forces would continue to deny criminal elements freedom of operation within the region.
The Nigerian army urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing reliable intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to improve safety along the waterways.
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