Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have foiled a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Borno State, rescuing more than 150 civilians in a swift operation ahead of the Easter period.
The rescue operation took place at about 2:50 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2026, along the Buratai–Kamuya axis in Sector 2 of the North-East theatre.
According to the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops deployed at Dutse Kura came under attack while escorting civilians along the route.
He said that while troops were decisively engaging the terrorists, surveillance assets detected the insurgents attempting to whisk away a large number of civilians — including men, women and children — in about 17 vehicles into the bush.
In response, troops of the Quick Reaction Force were immediately deployed to reinforce the location. The reinforcements repelled the attack and launched a rapid pursuit towards the Mangari area, forcing the terrorists to abandon both the abducted civilians and the vehicles.
“All rescued civilians, estimated at over 150, were safely recovered and moved to Buratai for onward movement to reunite with their families,” the statement said.
However, during the pursuit operation, troops encountered an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis, leaving five military personnel severely injured.
The wounded personnel were promptly evacuated for specialist medical treatment.
Operation HADIN KAI said the successful rescue operation reflected the troops’ high level of vigilance, rapid response capability and effective operational presence across the North-East.
The military also said the development underscored its determination to deny terrorists freedom of movement and protect vulnerable communities, especially as the Easter season approaches.
The command reassured residents of its sustained commitment to stabilisation efforts, civilian protection and continued offensive operations against terrorist elements across the theatre.
