Troops of Operation UDO KA operating in the South East region have successfully rescued eight Cameroonian nationals abducted by sea pirates along the Ikang waterways in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The development was disclosed on Monday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, in a press statement highlighting significant operational successes recorded by the Armed Forces of Nigeria between 19 and 23 January 2026.
According to Major General Onoja, three suspects were arrested in Anambra State during the rescue operation, following credible intelligence and coordinated troop action.
In a related development, about 80 militants voluntarily surrendered assorted arms and ammunition to troops in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State as part of ongoing amnesty and peace-building efforts in the region.
He noted that troops of Operation UDO KA recorded notable operational gains across the South East and Cross River axis, reinforcing the military’s commitment to restoring security and stability.
Meanwhile, in the South-South theatre, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE intensified operations against oil theft and economic sabotage. Within the same period, 31 oil thieves and other criminal elements were arrested, while 20 illegal refining sites were dismantled across Bayelsa, Delta, Imo, and Rivers States.
Major General Onoja added that related operations earlier in January resulted in the arrest of two additional suspects, with arms and ammunition recovered.
He reaffirmed the resolve of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to sustain offensive operations, deepen inter-agency collaboration, and protect lives, property, and critical national assets across the country.
