By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, have foiled a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and rescued over 150 civilians in Borno State.
The incident occurred at about 2:50 p.m. on March 30, 2026, when troops under Sector 2, deployed at Dutse Kura, came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya axis. The troops swiftly engaged the insurgents in a fierce gun battle.
In a statement by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, surveillance assets revealed that the terrorists were attempting to abduct a large number of civilians, including men, women, and children, using about 17 vehicles into the bush.
He said a Quick Reaction Force was immediately deployed to reinforce the troops at the scene, successfully repelling the attack and launching a pursuit towards the Mangari area. The sustained pressure forced the terrorists to abandon both the abducted civilians and their vehicles, effectively thwarting the mass kidnapping attempt.
All rescued civilians, estimated at over 150, were safely evacuated to Buratai, where arrangements are being made for their reunion with their families.
During the pursuit operation, troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis, resulting in severe injuries to five personnel. The injured soldiers were promptly evacuated for specialist medical care.
The military said the sacrifice of the wounded personnel reflects the resolve of Operation Hadin Kai to protect civilians and deny terrorists freedom of action across the North East.
The statement added that the successful operation underscores the troops’ vigilance, rapid response capability, and sustained offensive against terrorist elements, particularly as the Easter period approaches.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their bravery and resilience, urging them to maintain pressure on terrorist groups in the region.
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