Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
In an intelligence-driven operation that underscores the evolving tactics of Nigeria's counter-insurgency campaign, troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 53 civilians and recovered eight vehicles after dismantling a suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) roadblock along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. The operation, carried out on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, by troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion, Sector 2, marks another significant victory in the military's ongoing offensive against insurgents in Nigeria's North-East.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Military Information Officer of the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the operation began when troops deployed at Dutse Kura detected terrorists blocking the highway through surveillance cameras. The use of surveillance technology enabled the military to identify the threat and respond with precision, a development that highlights the increasing role of intelligence and technology in modern counter-insurgency operations.
Upon detecting the roadblock, a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) was immediately mobilised to the scene. The troops pursued the insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora general area, where they engaged them in a fierce firefight, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in confusion. "The encounter took place when troops deployed at Dutse Kura sighted terrorists blocking the highway through surveillance cameras. A Quick Reaction Force team immediately mobilized to the scene and pursued the insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora general area, made contact and engaged the terrorists in a firefight, forcing them to withdraw in confusion," the statement read.
During the operation, troops successfully rescued 53 innocent civilians who had been held by the terrorists and recovered eight vehicles that had been seized during the roadblock. The military said the troops further advanced to clear the insurgents' withdrawal route, dominated the area, and conducted further searches, although no additional contact was made. "All rescued persons, recovered vehicles and properties were safely moved to Buratai town. The rescued civilians are currently undergoing documentation and medical evaluations," the statement added.
The rescued civilians, comprising 20 men and 28 women, are currently receiving medical evaluations and documentation at Buratai town, the military confirmed. The operation comes amid heightened military activity in the North-East, where troops have intensified offensives against ISWAP and its rival, the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), also known as Boko Haram. The Theatre Command commended the professionalism and swift response of the troops, describing the operation as another significant success in the ongoing offensive against the terrorist groups. "The Theatre Command OPHK commends the professionalism and swift response of the troops," the statement said. "The command also urged residents within the Joint Operations Area to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities."
Borno State remains the epicentre of Nigeria's long-running insurgency, which began in 2009 when Boko Haram launched its violent campaign against Western education and the Nigerian state. The state has experienced persistent insecurity, including attacks on civilians and military formations. This latest rescue adds to a series of recent successes for Operation Hadin Kai, including the killing of 27 terrorists in the Southern and Northern Tumbus areas of Borno earlier this month.
The rescue of the 53 hostages and the recovery of eight vehicles represent a significant blow to ISWAP's operational capacity. The Buratai–Kamuya road is a critical artery in Borno State, and the dismantling of the roadblock is expected to restore confidence among commuters and residents who have long suffered from the activities of insurgents. The military has assured that the general security situation within the area remains calm as troops continue to maintain an aggressive posture and dominance in the general area.
For the 53 civilians who were held captive, freedom has come at a price, but the successful operation offers a glimmer of hope in a region that has endured years of violence and displacement. As the military continues its offensive, the message is clear: the era of impunity for terrorists in the North-East is coming to an end, and Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
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