Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Troops of the 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, executed a swift and coordinated waterborne operation in Bakassi on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, rescuing four civilians being ferried by armed militants toward the Isangele–Achibong corridor in neighbouring Cameroon. The soldiers, conducting a routine patrol designed to limit criminal activity along strategic waterways, intercepted the speedboat carrying the abducted victims.
The militants opened fire in an attempt to break free, but the troops responded with precise and superior firepower, forcing the attackers to abandon the captives and escape into the surrounding creeks. All four victims were recovered unharmed, their belongings intact, and no soldier sustained injury — a firm indication of the troops’ discipline, readiness, and tactical efficiency.
Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, Commander of the 13 Brigade, commended the troops for their vigilance and bravery, noting that the outcome of the operation reflects the Brigade’s strong operational posture and continued commitment to protecting residents across Cross River State’s coastal and riverine zones.
Rescues of this nature have become increasingly common across the nation’s riverine corridors, where criminal groups exploit difficult terrain and cross-border routes to evade pursuit. Similar cases show that rapid interception during transit is often the decisive factor in preventing prolonged captivity. This latest operation reinforces a growing trend: when patrol presence is consistent and strategically positioned along waterways, the mobility advantage of kidnappers weakens significantly. Yet, the persistence of these attempts highlights the need for deeper surveillance capacity and sustained collaboration with local communities whose knowledge of the creeks remains invaluable.
The operation reflects improving coordination and responsiveness among security units operating in coastal environments. However, the continued reliance of militants on water routes indicates that gaps still exist in long-range monitoring and early detection, making investment in surveillance tools and local intelligence networks essential to long-term stability.
The success of the 13 Brigade in rescuing the victims is both reassuring and instructive. It demonstrates the impact of consistent security presence while underscoring the ongoing need for broader structural measures that can limit criminal exploitation of the region’s waterways and strengthen safety for residents who depend on them daily.
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