Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have rescued more than 47 civilians, predominantly women and children, who were held captive by suspected ISWAP terrorists in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI
He said the rescue operation, carried out on June 20, 2026, was attributed to sustained offensive military actions against terrorist strongholds in the Lake Chad region.
According to military authorities, continuous ground and air assaults by OPHK troops mounted significant pressure on ISWAP fighters, forcing them to abandon their positions and creating an opportunity for the captives to escape from prolonged detention.
The rescued individuals have since been relocated to a secure location, where they are receiving medical attention and other humanitarian assistance. Military officials said support services are being coordinated with relevant agencies to facilitate their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society.
The Theatre Command described the operation as another significant humanitarian achievement in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign in the North-East, noting that efforts are focused not only on degrading terrorist capabilities but also on securing the freedom of civilians held against their will.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at dismantling remaining ISWAP networks and restoring lasting peace and stability across the region.
