Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued 12 kidnap victims—seven women and five children—during a daring pre-dawn raid on Boko Haram enclaves in the Mandara Mountain axis of Borno State.
The victims, abducted on 14 November while travelling along the Gwoza–Limankara road, were freed on Sunday following a coordinated clearance mission under Operation Desert Sanity IV and Diligent Search.
The operation, led by the 26 Task Force Brigade with support from Hybrid Forces, hunters and vigilantes, saw troops navigate the rugged mountain foothills toward Uvaha before launching an intense assault on the terrorists’ hideouts. The overwhelming firepower forced the insurgents to abandon their captives and flee.
Amid the confusion, the traumatised victims scattered into nearby bushes, disoriented after days in captivity. Troops continued an extensive search of the area and by 8:45 a.m. had recovered all 12 individuals.
Those rescued include Fadi Musa, Jummai Manga, Hamsatu Musa, Jummai Ali, Inna Amadu, Falmata Musa, Hadiza Hamman and five children. Many were exhausted and injured after trekking long distances when their captors fled. They were immediately taken to the brigade field ambulance for treatment of blisters, injuries and the effects of beatings suffered in captivity. Following medical attention and meals, the victims were handed over to a representative of the Gwoza Local Government Chairman for family reunification.
The military high command commended the courage, speed and professionalism of the troops, while acknowledging the crucial role of local informants and other security partners whose intelligence contributed to the successful rescue.
Troops continue to pursue ISWAP remnants across southern Borno as part of intensified efforts to prevent further attacks and safeguard communities.
