Troops Repel Terrorists, Rescue Six Abducted Victims in Borno’s Mandara Mountains
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued six abducted women and children in a daring operation in the Mandara Mountains of Borno State, repelling pursuing terrorists and reuniting the victims with their families in an emotional homecoming.
The breakthrough, which followed intensified military offensives in the North East, underscores growing pressure on insurgent groups and renewed momentum in ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
According to a statement from the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, signed by Sani Uba, the rescue was carried out in the early hours of May 1, 2026, during a follow-up operation after a successful overnight offensive.
Troops, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted the victims near Amuda—an abandoned corridor between Ngoshe and Gava known for terrorist movements—while returning from combat operations in the Mandara axis.
Military authorities said the rescued victims—identified as Zainab Idris (18), Fatima Abubakar (17), Maimuna Abdulrashid (24), and three children—had been abducted during an ആക്രമ on Ngoshe community in March and were held in captivity before escaping.
During the rescue, troops reportedly came under sporadic gunfire from terrorists attempting to recapture the escapees but responded swiftly.
“Troops engaged the terrorists in a brief exchange of fire, forcing them to retreat into the mountainous terrain,” the statement said.
The military attributed the successful rescue to sustained air and ground offensives that have weakened insurgent strongholds and disrupted their operations.
“Intelligence indicates that the terrorists are increasingly desperate and disorganized due to sustained operational pressure and the escape of captives,” the statement added.
The victims were immediately given medical attention at a military facility before being formally handed over to community leaders. They were later reunited with their families through the Wali of Ngoshe, Shuaibu Dabawa, in a ceremony witnessed by residents.
The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to securing communities across the North East and rescuing all abducted persons.
“Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high as operations continue with renewed vigour,” the military said, urging residents to provide timely intelligence to support ongoing efforts.
The Military High Command also commended the troops for their performance, calling for sustained aggressive operations to eliminate terrorist enclaves and restore lasting peace in the region.
