Troops foil kidnapping of 8 boat passengers on Ikang – Cameroon waterways

Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

A quick intervention of troops of Nigerian Army has led to the swift rescue of eight passengers kidnapped from a commercial boat along the Ikang – Cameroon waterways in Cross River State.

The kidnapped victims, comprising six adults and two minors were abducted by suspected militants who intercepted their boat along the Ikang – Cameroon waterways, Major Yemi Sokoya, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army said in a statement on Monday.

He said the troops received credible intelligence from members of the local community about the abduction.

“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,” Sokoya said.

He added that 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,” Sokoya said in the statement.

He quoted the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General PO Alimikhena as commending the troops for their professionalism, swift response, and commitment to protecting lives and property.

According to the statement, Alimikhena also expressed profound appreciation to members of the local community for their prompt and credible information, which was instrumental to the successful rescue operation.

The Commander also further reassured 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,” he said.