Troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have rescued four kidnapped victims during an operation in Bakassi, Cross River State.
The rescue took place on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, according to a statement released on Wednesday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 13 Brigade, Major Yemi Sokoya. The statement was issued via the Army’s X handle.
Major Sokoya explained that the troops were carrying out a routine water patrol when they sighted militants ferrying four abducted civilians in a speedboat toward Isangele, Achibong, in the Republic of Cameroon. He said the criminals immediately opened fire after spotting the soldiers.
“Upon sighting the soldiers, the militants opened fire in an attempt to evade arrest. The troops immediately returned accurate and superior firepower, forcing the criminals to abandon the victims and flee into the surrounding creeks,” the statement said.
He added that the quick response of the personnel made it possible for all four victims to be rescued safely along with their belongings. “Due to the swift and professional response of the troops, all four abducted victims were successfully rescued along with their belongings,” he stated.
The Army noted that the operation was completed without any casualty on the part of the soldiers, describing the outcome as proof of their discipline, preparedness and tactical efficiency.
Reacting to the development, Commander 13 Brigade, Brigadier General P. O. Alimikhena, commended the soldiers for what he described as their courage, vigilance and dedication to duty.
He said the rescue operation reflects the brigade’s high level of readiness and its commitment to dismantling criminal networks operating within riverine and coastal communities.
The Army reaffirmed that the 13 Brigade remains committed to protecting residents of Cross River State and improving security across the area.
