Troops rescue 92 civilians, destroy IEDs in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, have successfully rescued 92 civilians who were abducted by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists. The rescue operation took place along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in the Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.

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All 92 kidnapped victims, comprising 52 males, 33 females and seven children, along with eight vehicles, were successfully recovered.

The operation, conducted on Saturday, not only freed the captives but also led to the recovery of eight vehicles and the detonation of three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by the fleeing insurgents. According to Lt Col Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation Hadin Kai, troops detected the terrorists forcing civilians and vehicles off the road.

Reinforcements were deployed, leading to a pursuit of the insurgents. The military stated that the terrorists abandoned the captives and fled. "All 92 kidnapped victims, comprising 52 males, 33 females and seven children, along with eight vehicles, were successfully recovered," the military confirmed.

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The unit’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team responded with precision and successfully detonated all three devices, clearing the route and enabling troops to press the pursuit approximately five kilometres beyond the Mangari general area.

As the troops advanced, the insurgents attempted to impede their progress by planting three IEDs. However, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team successfully detonated these devices, clearing the route. The military reported sustaining no personnel or equipment casualties throughout the operation, highlighting its effectiveness. The rescued civilians received immediate welfare support and were escorted to Damaturu in Yobe State to continue their journeys.

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OPHK troops sustained zero personnel or equipment casualties throughout the operation.