Troops rescue 47 Boko Haram/ISWAP captives in Borno village

Nigerian troops have achieved a significant humanitarian success by rescuing 47 individuals, primarily women and children, who were held captive by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists. The rescue operation took place on June 20, 2026, in Kangarwa village, located in the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

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The successful rescue operation was made possible through sustained aggressive pressure and relentless offensive operations conducted by OPHK troops against ISWAP enclaves in the Lake Chad region.

Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), stated that the success resulted from sustained aggressive pressure and relentless offensive operations against ISWAP enclaves in the Lake Chad region. These actions reportedly forced terrorists to abandon their positions, allowing the victims to escape captivity.

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The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity.

The rescued individuals are currently under medical observation at a secure location and are receiving necessary humanitarian support in coordination with relevant agencies. Captain Goni emphasized that this rescue underscores the troops' commitment to degrading terrorist capabilities and securing innocent civilians. The command reaffirmed its resolve to continue offensive operations to dismantle remaining ISWAP networks and restore peace to the North East region.

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The rescued persons are currently being seen by medical professionals at a secure location. Necessary humanitarian support is being provided in coordination with relevant agencies to facilitate their eventual reintegration.