What began as an ordinary waterway trip between Cameroon and Nigeria quickly spiraled into a terrifying experience for dozens of travelers when armed sea pirates struck along the border waterways.
The passengers had no warning that their journey would end with gunfire, fear, and a dramatic rescue operation.
Sea Pirates Strike Along Cameroon Waters
The incident happened on January 11, 2026, when suspected sea pirates hijacked a passenger boat moving from Cameroon toward Nigeria.
The attack took place around the Kombo Fishing Port axis, deep within Cameroonian waters.
According to reports, the criminals arrived aggressively, using two speedboats and a wooden boat to intercept the passenger vessel.
They forcefully abducted everyone on board, including vulnerable passengers such as infants, and disappeared into the waterways.
Distress Call Triggers Swift Military Response
The alarm was raised shortly after the hijacking, prompting an immediate response from troops of the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade stationed in Ikang.
A distress call detailed how the pirates had seized the boat and taken the passengers hostage while heading toward the creeks.
The Brigade’s Assistant Director of Public Relations, Major Yemi Sokoya, confirmed the incident in an official statement that was later shared on the Nigerian Army’s X (formerly Twitter) page.
Gunfire, Pursuit, and a Dramatic Escape
Acting without delay, the 13 Brigade troops pursued the attackers across the waterways.
The chase escalated into an exchange of gunfire, forcing the pirates into retreat. During the confrontation, one of the pirates’ speedboats capsized, throwing their operation into chaos.
Faced with mounting pressure from the advancing soldiers, the attackers abandoned their captives and fled into nearby creeks, leaving the passengers behind.
All 18 Passengers Rescued Without Injuries
Following the intense operation, all 18 abducted passengers were safely rescued.
Importantly, the victims—including two infants—were found unharmed, bringing immense relief to their families and authorities monitoring the situation.
The Army described the rescue as a successful outcome of rapid coordination and decisive action by the deployed troops.
Brigade Commander Praises Troops’ Courage
Reacting to the operation, the Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, applauded the soldiers for their bravery and professionalism.
He noted that the mission reflected the Army’s determination to protect lives and maintain control over the region’s waterways, despite growing threats from criminal groups.
Call for Community Support in Fighting Crime
Brigadier General Alimikhena also appealed to residents across Cross River State and surrounding areas to support security agencies by sharing timely and credible information.
He stressed that cooperation between civilians and the military remains essential in sustaining peace and preventing criminal activities.
Reinforcing Security Along Regional Waterways
The Nigerian Army emphasized that the operation highlights the 13 Brigade’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring safety across border waterways.
With piracy still posing a threat in the region, authorities say patrols and intelligence-driven operations will remain a top priority.
As security forces maintain their presence, attention now turns to strengthening surveillance and preventing future attacks along these critical water routes.
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