Troops from Operation Hadin Kai on Monday, repelled a Boko Haram onslaught while escorting travelers along the Buratai-Kamuya axis in Borno State, rescuing 150 civilians in the process.
Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Northeast Joint Taskforce’s Operation Hadin Kai, said this in a statement on Monday evening.
According to him, the terrorists attempted to abduct a significant number of citizens, including men, women, and children, in approximately 17 vehicles into the jungle.
The statement read, “Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have once again demonstrated impressive operational dominance and unwavering commitment to the protection of civilians by foiling a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Sector 2 of OPHK.
“The incident occurred at about 1450 hours on 30 March 2026, when troops of OPHK under Sector 2 deployed at Dutse Kura came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya axis.”
Uba added that while decisively engaging the terrorists, surveillance assets detected the rebels attempting to abduct a significant number of civilians, including men, women, and children, in around 17 cars into the bush.
“In a swift and coordinated response, the Quick Reaction Force rapidly reinforced the location, repelled the attack, and immediately launched a pursuit towards the Mangari area,” he stated.
According to him, the severe pressure applied by troops prompted the terrorists to abandon all captured persons and vehicles, ultimately ending the mass kidnapping attempt.
“All rescued civilians, estimated at over 150, were safely recovered and moved to Buratai for onward movement to reunite with their families,” he noted.
During the manhunt, the spokesperson said troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma-Mangari axis.
“Five personnel sustained severe injuries and were promptly evacuated for specialist medical care. The sacrifice of our gallant troops underscores the resolve of OPHK to deny terrorists freedom of action and protect vulnerable populations across the Theatre,” he said.
He noted that the successful rescue operation highlights the high level of vigilance, rapid response capability, and effective presence posture of OPHK forces across the Northeast.
“It further reassures the populace of the military’s commitment to stabilization efforts, protection of civilians, and sustained offensive pressure on terrorist elements, particularly as the Easter period approaches,” he stated.
Uba mentioned that the Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and resilience, urging them to sustain an aggressive posture against terrorists.
