Soldiers Rescue 53 Hostages, Recover Eight Vehicles in Borno

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 53 civilians and recovered eight vehicles after dismantling a suspected ISWAP/JAS roadblock along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement posted on its official X handle on Friday and signed by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni.

According to the statement, the operation was carried out on Wednesday, June 24, after troops deployed at Dutse Kura detected suspicious terrorist activities through surveillance cameras monitoring the highway.

The Army explained that the insurgents had mounted a roadblock and were attempting to intercept motorists travelling along the route before troops responded swiftly.

“A Quick Reaction Force team immediately mobilised to the scene and pursued the insurgents towards the Mangari–Dora general area. Troops made contact and engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to withdraw in confusion,” the statement said.

Following the successful operation, soldiers rescued 53 civilians who had reportedly been held by the terrorists during the attack.

The troops also recovered eight vehicles that had been seized by the insurgents while carrying out their activities along the highway.

After the encounter, soldiers conducted clearance operations along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes and searched nearby areas to ensure no further threat remained. However, no additional contact with the fleeing insurgents was recorded.

The military confirmed that all rescued civilians, recovered vehicles and other properties were safely evacuated to Buratai town.

According to the statement, the rescued victims are currently undergoing proper documentation and medical examinations before being reunited with their families.

The Nigerian Army commended the professionalism, courage and rapid response of the troops involved in the operation, describing their actions as instrumental in preventing further harm to innocent road users.

The military also appealed to residents across the North-East to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious movements and activities.

Borno State remains the epicentre of Nigeria’s prolonged insurgency, with security forces sustaining offensive operations against terrorist groups across the region. The latest rescue operation adds to recent military successes aimed at degrading insurgent networks, protecting civilians and restoring normalcy to affected communities.