Troops from the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating from Forward Operating Base Ikang, have successfully rescued eight civilians who were kidnapped along the Ikang–Cameroon waterways.
According to a statement posted by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Yemi Sokoya on Nigerian Army’s X account on Tuesday, the operation followed credible intelligence from local community members indicating that militants had intercepted a commercial boat and abducted six adults and two minors.
“Acting swiftly, the troops deployed to pursue the perpetrators, blocked possible escape routes, and secured the waterways.
“As a result of the rapid response, the militants abandoned the victims at Ini-Abasi Fishing Port and fled into nearby creeks and the high seas.
“The civilians were recovered safely, documented, and later released, with no casualties reported during the operation,” the post read.
The Commander of 13 Brigade, Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, praised the professionalism and prompt action of the troops.
He also thanked members of the local community for their timely intelligence, which was key to the successful rescue, and reassured the public that the Brigade would continue aggressive patrols to prevent further criminal activity
He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to help maintain safety in the area.