Army Foils Boat Hijacking, Rescues 18 Passengers on Nigeria–Cameroon Waterways
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade have rescued 18 passengers, including two infants, following a daring operation against suspected sea pirates who hijacked a passenger boat en route from Nigeria to Cameroon.
The incident occurred on January 11, 2026, when armed pirates, operating with two speedboats and a wooden boat, intercepted and hijacked the passenger vessel along the Kombo Fishing Port axis within Cameroonian waterways. The attackers abducted all passengers aboard the boat, prompting an emergency distress call.
Acting swiftly on the alert, troops of 13 Brigade deployed from Ikang pursued the pirates into the waterways. The pursuit led to an exchange of gunfire, during which one of the pirates’ speedboats capsized. Overwhelmed by the troops’ firepower, the criminals abandoned their captives and escaped into the surrounding creeks.
All 18 passengers were successfully rescued unharmed.
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Commending the operation, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, praised the troops for their professionalism and bravery.
“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,” he said. “We will continue to dominate our operational environment and safeguard our citizens against all criminal elements.”
Brigadier General Alimikhena also called on members of the public to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information that could aid troops in tackling criminal activities, stressing that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining peace and security across Cross River State.
The operation, according to the Nigerian Army, highlights the continued resolve of 13 Brigade to secure lives, protect maritime routes, and maintain safety across regional waterways.
By PRNigeria
