Troops Rescue 18, Including Infants, in Cross-Border Boat Hijacking

In a rapid response operation on Saturday, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade successfully rescued all 18 passengers aboard a commercial boat hijacked by suspected sea pirates along the Nigeria-Cameroon maritime border, military authorities confirmed.

The operation, which unfolded on the morning of January 11, 2026, began when armed attackers in two speedboats and a wooden boat intercepted a passenger vessel traveling from a Nigerian port toward Cameroon.

According to an official statement signed by Major Yemi Sokoya, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 13 Brigade, a distress call was received indicating the boat had been seized and the passengers taken hostage near the Kombo Fishing Port within Cameroonian territorial waters.

“Troops of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at Ikang Forward Operating Base swiftly responded to a distress call concerning the hijack of a passenger boat en route to Cameroon by suspected sea pirates,” the statement, dated January 11, 2026, read.

The responding troops engaged the hijackers in a pursuit, leading to a brief but intense exchange of gunfire on the water. The military’s assault caused one of the pirates’ speedboats to capsize.

“Under superior firepower and relentless pursuit, the criminals were overwhelmed, abandoned their victims, and fled into the surrounding maze of creeks,” Major Sokoya’s report detailed. All 18 passengers, including two infants, were recovered physically unharmed and have been provided with medical checks and assistance.

Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, Commander of the 13 Brigade, personally commended the operating troops. In comments included in the official release, he framed the mission as a testament to the army’s tactical readiness.

“This successful rescue operation demonstrates the courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of our men and women in uniform to protect the lives of citizens and ensure the safety of our critical waterways,” General Alimikhena stated.

He further emphasized the ongoing need for collaborative security, directly appealing to local communities for support. “We urge the public, particularly riverine communities, to continue partnering with us by providing timely and credible information. This synergy is vital to dismantle criminal networks and ensure lasting security in Cross River State and beyond.”