Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have rescued more than 47 persons, mostly women and children, who were held captive by terrorists of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The rescue operation, which took place on June 20, 2026, was achieved following sustained military offensives against ISWAP strongholds in the Lake Chad region.
According to the Acting Military Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the successful rescue was made possible through relentless ground and air assaults that forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in disarray, creating an opportunity for the captives to escape from prolonged detention.
Captain Goni disclosed that the rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention at a secure location, while humanitarian assistance is being provided in collaboration with relevant agencies to support their recovery and reintegration into society.
He noted that the latest rescue underscores the commitment of Operation HADIN KAI troops not only to neutralize terrorist threats but also to secure the freedom of innocent civilians held against their will.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its determination to sustain aggressive operations aimed at dismantling remaining ISWAP networks and restoring lasting peace and normalcy across the North-East region.
The rescue represents another significant humanitarian achievement in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign in the Lake Chad basin, where security forces continue to intensify pressure on terrorist elements operating within the region.
