By Frank Ulom
BAKASSI (CONVERSEER) – Troops of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating from Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ikang, Bakassi, have successfully rescued eight kidnapped civilians following a swift and coordinated response to a distress call on 29 December 2025.
According to a statement by Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, on Monday, “the troops received credible intelligence from members of the local community that suspected militants had intercepted a commercial boat along the Ikang – Cameroon waterways and abducted eight civilians, comprising six adults and two minors.
“Acting promptly on this information, the troops immediately deployed in pursuit of the perpetrators while simultaneously blocking possible escape routes and dominating the waterways.
“As a result of proactive response by the troops, the militants abandoned the victims at the Ini-Abasi Fishing Port and fled into the creeks towards the high sea. The abandoned victims were subsequently and successfully recovered by the troops.”
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The statement added, “The rescued civilians were safely conveyed to the Brigade’s location, where they were properly documented and later released. No casualties were recorded during the operation. Troops continued patrols along the waterways to prevent regrouping or further criminal activities by the fleeing militants.”
The Commander, 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, commends the troops for their professionalism, swift response, and commitment to protecting lives and property.
He also expresses profound appreciation to members of the local community for their prompt and credible information, which was instrumental to the successful rescue operation.
He further reassures members of the public of the Brigade’s resolve to sustain aggressive patrols and deny criminal elements freedom of action within the area.
“Members of the public are encouraged to continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information,” the statement added.
