Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), successfully prevented a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants on 30 March 2026, rescuing more than 150 civilians and reinforcing protection efforts in northeast Nigeria ahead of the Easter holiday. The incident occurred along the Buratai–Kamuya axis in Borno State, where soldiers escorting civilians were ambushed by armed insurgents.
Troops from the 135 Special Forces Battalion deployed at Dutse Kura were on an escort mission when they came under a coordinated attack around 2:50 p.m. Surveillance indicated that the insurgents had herded a large group of civilians into about 17 vehicles, intending to drive them into forested areas for captivity.
A Quick Reaction Force was immediately deployed to reinforce the unit. The troops engaged the attackers decisively, repelling the assault and initiating a pursuit toward the Mangari area. The pressure from the military forced the insurgents to abandon the civilians and vehicles, allowing the soldiers to secure the release of over 150 men, women, and children. The rescued civilians were safely moved to the military post at Buratai for reunification with their families.
During the pursuit, troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis. Five soldiers sustained severe injuries and were promptly evacuated for specialist medical care. Their condition has been reported as stable under treatment.
The Joint Task Force described the rescue operation as a demonstration of operational readiness, high vigilance, and rapid response capability. The successful intervention highlights the military’s commitment to denying terrorists freedom of movement and protecting civilians, especially during major festive periods.
The attempted mass kidnapping is part of a long-standing pattern of insurgent activity in northeastern Nigeria. Boko Haram and ISWAP have been responsible for repeated attacks, mass abductions, and terror campaigns aimed at destabilising communities. Operations like this rescue illustrate the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian military to protect vulnerable populations and reinforce public confidence.
Humanitarian organisations have welcomed the outcome, emphasising the need for trauma care, shelter, and reintegration support for survivors of insurgent attacks. The rescued civilians are expected to be reunited with their families after medical and welfare assessments.
Security analysts note that while military interventions are critical, long-term stability in the northeast requires a combination of enforcement, community resilience programs, governance reforms, and socioeconomic development to address the root causes of insurgency. The thwarted abduction and successful rescue demonstrate both the capability and dedication of the military to safeguard civilians while combating extremist threats in the region.
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