Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have rescued 92 civilians abducted by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the military, the rescue operation was carried out on Saturday following intelligence gathered by troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion stationed at Dutse Kura.
The terrorists were reportedly seen forcing civilians and vehicles off the highway and into nearby bushes when the troops detected the movement through a surveillance system at about 11:22am.
A Quick Reaction Force was immediately deployed, while additional reinforcement troops from the 27 Task Force Brigade Garrison joined the operation.
Military authorities said troops pursued the insurgents towards the Mangari-Dora area, engaging them in a coordinated operation that forced the attackers to abandon their captives and flee.
The operation led to the rescue of 92 victims, including 52 men, 33 women and seven children. Eight vehicles were also recovered during the mission.
According to the military, the fleeing terrorists attempted to slow down advancing troops by planting three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) around the Bula Zarma and Mangari axis.
However, the explosives were detected and safely detonated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, allowing troops to continue the pursuit for several kilometres beyond the area.
Subsequent search operations were conducted, but the insurgents had reportedly dispersed after abandoning the victims and vehicles.
The military confirmed that no personnel or equipment casualties were recorded during the operation.
The rescued civilians were later provided immediate assistance and escorted to Damaturu, where they were released to continue their journey.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North EaPst) Operation HADIN KAI.