13 Brigade Troops Rescue 18 Passengers After Boat Hijacking Incident

Source: Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army

Yemi Sokoya, Major – Assistant Director, Army Public Relations

11 January 2026

Troops of the 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have successfully rescued 18 passengers, including two infants, following a boat hijacking incident along the Nigeria–Cameroon waterway.

The incident occurred on 11 January 2026, when suspected sea pirates reportedly hijacked a passenger boat traveling from Cameroon to Nigeria. According to security sources, the attack took place around the Kombo Fishing Port within Cameroonian waters, where the passengers were forcibly abducted.

Upon receiving a distress alert, troops stationed at Ikang swiftly mobilized and launched a pursuit operation. During the encounter, the assailants—who were operating two speedboats and a wooden vessel—were engaged, leading to the capsizing of one of the pirates’ boats. The attackers subsequently abandoned the kidnapped passengers and escaped into nearby creeks.

All 18 passengers were rescued unharmed and safely escorted to a secure location.

The Commander, 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, praised the troops for their rapid response and professionalism. He described the operation as a clear demonstration of the Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and securing waterways within the region.

Brigadier General Alimikhena further called on residents to continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information, noting that community cooperation remains vital in combating criminal activities across Cross River State and adjoining waterways.

The operation reinforces the Nigerian Army’s continued efforts to ensure safety and maintain security across strategic maritime routes.