Troops foil mass abduction in Borno, rescue over 150 civilians

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have thwarted an attempted mass abduction by insurgents in Borno State, rescuing more than 150 civilians during an escort operation.

The incident took place on Monday along the Buratai-Kamuya route, where soldiers came under attack while providing security for travellers.

In a statement issued on Monday evening, the Media Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force, Lt Col Sani Uba, said the assailants, identified as Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, had mobilised about 17 vehicles in a bid to whisk away civilians into the bush.

Uba explained that the troops, stationed under Sector 2 at Dutse Kura, responded swiftly when the attack began at about 2:50 pm. While engaging the insurgents, aerial surveillance confirmed that the attackers were in the process of abducting a large number of men, women and children.

Reinforcements were immediately deployed as the Quick Reaction Force moved in to support the troops. The combined effort repelled the attackers and forced them into retreat towards the Mangari area.

Sustained military pressure compelled the insurgents to abandon both the captives and their vehicles, effectively stopping what officials described as a planned large-scale kidnapping.

The rescued civilians were subsequently evacuated to Buratai, from where arrangements were made to reunite them with their families.

However, the operation was not without casualties. During the pursuit of the fleeing insurgents, troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma-Mangari axis. Five soldiers sustained serious injuries and were evacuated for specialised medical treatment.

Uba noted that the incident highlights the determination of the troops to protect civilians and maintain operational control in the region. He added that the success of the mission reflects improved vigilance, rapid response capability and sustained offensive action against terrorist groups.

The military also reassured residents of its continued commitment to stabilising the North-East, particularly as the Easter period approaches.

The High Command commended the troops for their courage and resilience, urging them to maintain momentum in ongoing operations against insurgents.