The Insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, supported by Special Operations Forces, have rescued 360 civilians—mostly women and children—held captive by Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.
The dramatic rescue operation, carried out on June 6 around the rugged Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area, successfully freed victims who had been abducted during a terrorist attack on Ngoshe community on March 3, 2026.
Military sources disclosed that Special Operations Forces launched preliminary missions deep within terrorist enclaves, creating confusion and disarray among the insurgents. The coordinated action enabled troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade to move in and extract the hostages from captivity.
The operation brought relief to hundreds of families who had waited months for news of their loved ones. Security officials described the mission as one of the most significant humanitarian rescue efforts recorded in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign in the North-East.
Despite the success, the operation was marred by tragedy as two infants lost their lives during the difficult evacuation process. Sources attributed the deaths to the harsh terrain and challenging conditions encountered while transporting the rescued victims to safety.
Upon arrival at military-controlled locations, all rescued persons underwent immediate medical screening. Victims requiring urgent care were stabilised by military medical personnel and subsequently transferred to the General Hospital, Gwoza, for further treatment.
The rescued civilians were also provided with food, water and other essential support before being moved to a secure facility ahead of their handover to relevant authorities and eventual reunification with their families.
Security sources hailed the operation as a major blow to terrorist networks operating in the Mandara Mountains and a testament to the military’s sustained efforts to rescue civilians trapped in insurgent strongholds.
While noting that the security situation in the area remains calm but unpredictable, the sources said troops remain highly motivated and operationally effective as they continue offensive operations against terrorist elements across the region.
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