In a remarkable display of bravery and compassion, troops from Operation HADIN KAI have restored hope to 12 families by rescuing seven women and five children from Boko Haram captivity in the harsh terrain of the Mandara Mountains.
The victims, who were en route, were abducted on 14 November along the Gwoza Limankara road. They regained their freedom on Sunday following a daring clearance mission carried out under Operation DESERT SANITY IV and Diligent Search.
Led by the vigilant 26 Task Force Brigade, with support from Hybrid Forces, hunters, and local vigilantes, the troops launched a pre-dawn assault through the rugged foothills towards Uvaha. The sheer intensity of the troop’s firepower forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee.
In the ensuing chaos, the terrified victims scattered into the surrounding bushes, disoriented and exhausted from days of captivity. At approximately 8:45 a.m., they were safely recovered by troops who continued searching the area to ensure no one was left behind.
Among those rescued were Fadi Musa, Jummai Manga, Hamsatu Musa, Jummai Ali, Inna Amadu, Falmata Musa, Hadiza Hamman, and five children. Many appeared visibly fatigued after trekking long distances when their captors fled under fire. The troops promptly evacuated them to the brigade field ambulance, where they received urgent medical care for blisters, injuries, and the effects of beatings sustained during captivity. After treatment and meals, they were formally handed over to a representative of the Chairman of Gwoza Local Government Area for reunification with their families.
The military high command has commended the bravery, speed, and professionalism of the troops, acknowledging the crucial contributions of security stakeholders and local informants whose timely intelligence enabled the rescue. Troops remain in active pursuit of ISWAP remnants across southern Borno to prevent further atrocities and ensure the safety of all civilians.
