Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have foiled a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, rescuing over 150 civilians in the North-East.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Sani Uba, on March 30, 2026.
According to the statement, the incident occurred at about 1450 hours when troops under Sector 2 deployed at Dutse Kura came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya axis.
While engaging the terrorists, surveillance assets identified insurgents attempting to abduct a large number of civilians — including men, women, and children — using about 17 vehicles to transport them into the bush.
The statement said troops responded swiftly, with the Quick Reaction Force reinforcing the location, repelling the attack, and launching a pursuit toward the Mangari area.
It added that the pressure mounted by the troops forced the terrorists to abandon the abducted civilians and vehicles, thereby thwarting the mass abduction attempt.
All rescued civilians, estimated at over 150, were safely recovered and moved to Buratai for onward reunion with their families.
During the pursuit, troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis, resulting in severe injuries to five personnel who were immediately evacuated for specialist medical care.
The statement noted that the sacrifice of the injured personnel underscores the resolve of troops to protect civilians and deny terrorists freedom of action.
It further stated that the successful operation demonstrates the high level of vigilance, rapid response capability, and effective operational presence of troops across the North-East.
The military reassured the public of its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist elements and ensuring the protection of civilians, especially as the Easter period approaches.
Original reporting by Habibu Idris Gimba for The Credibility News.
