Troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, operating from Forward Operating Base Ikang, have rescued eight civilians kidnapped along the Ikang–Cameroon waterways.
According to a statement posted on Tuesday on the Nigerian Army’s X account by the assistant director, Army Public Relations, 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Yemi Sokoya, the operation was carried out following credible intelligence from local community members. The intelligence revealed 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,**” ... read.
The Commander of 13 Brigade, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, commended the professionalism and prompt response of the troops.
He also appreciated members of the local community for providing timely intelligence, describing it as crucial to the success of the rescue operation. Alimikhena reassured residents that the Brigade would sustain aggressive patrols to curb further criminal activities.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance safety in the area.