Reported by: Althiea .P | Edited by: Bornet .k
Two abducted victims have been rescued by Nigerian troops in Borno State after they escaped from a terrorist hideout reportedly weakened by sustained military operations, according to security sources.
The victims were found on Thursday, 16 July 2026, at about 6:50 a.m. near Armuda Bridge in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State during a routine patrol by troops of the 82 Division Task Force Battalion. The rescue was disclosed on Friday, 17 July 2026, by security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared details of the operation on his official X account.
According to preliminary accounts provided by the rescued abductees, they escaped from a terrorist enclave in the Agapalwa general area of Gwoza after taking advantage of confusion within the camp caused by ongoing military bombardments and counterterrorism operations.
The victims reportedly told security personnel that the terrorist camp had become disorganised, with no effective leadership structure remaining after several fighters were either killed, injured or forced to flee following repeated military attacks.
Their accounts reportedly align with intelligence assessments indicating that continued operations by troops under Operation HADIN KAI, the Nigerian military’s counter-insurgency campaign in the Northeast, have weakened some terrorist positions in parts of southern Borno.
Security sources said the rescued victims are currently in protective custody and are undergoing medical checks and further debriefing. Authorities are expected to use information gathered from them to improve intelligence operations and track the activities of terrorist groups operating in the region.
The rescue comes as Nigerian security forces continue operations against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters who have maintained attacks in parts of Borno State despite years of military campaigns.
Gwoza and surrounding communities remain among the areas heavily affected by insurgency due to their proximity to forests and difficult terrains that have historically provided hiding locations for armed groups.
Military authorities have repeatedly stated that sustained offensives, intelligence-led operations and cooperation from local communities remain central to efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore stability across affected areas.
The latest development provides renewed hope for families of people still being held by insurgents, while security agencies continue efforts to locate and rescue remaining captives and prevent further attacks.
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