Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have recorded fresh operational successes under Operation DESERT SANITY, including the rescue of abducted civilians, neutralisation of terrorists, and arrest of suspected collaborators across the theatre.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the latest breakthrough occurred during a clearance operation along the Mandara Mountains axis and the Amuda–Gava corridor, following credible intelligence on terrorist movement.
“Troops of OPHK, acting on credible intelligence, conducted an operation at a suspected terrorist crossing point along the Amuda–Gava corridor on 14 May 2026. During the operation, troops successfully intercepted and rescued six abducted women and children, all residents of Ngoshe community, who had been held captive by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist elements,” the statement read.
The rescued victims include Amina Salihu (52), Aishatu Musa (50), twin sisters Hassana and Hussaina Abubakar (9 years each), Adamu Zakariyya (12), and Usman Zakariyya (10). They were reportedly abducted from Ngoshe community during earlier attacks.
The statement added that the victims were received by the Commander, 26 Task Force Brigade, Brigadier General Nasirudeen Abdullahi, and were immediately given medical attention before being reunited with their families through local community leaders, including the Bulama of Ngoshe and the Chief Imam, Mallam Auwalu Hudu.
“The Commander assured residents of Ngoshe community that troops will sustain ongoing rescue operations until all abducted persons are safely reunited with their families,” Lt. Col. Uba stated.
He further disclosed that about 60 women and children have now been rescued since the March 3, 2026 attack on Ngoshe community.
In separate operations across Konduga Local Government Area and parts of Yobe State, troops also neutralised terrorists and arrested suspected collaborators.
According to the military, two Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters were eliminated during an operation in Bazamri village, Konduga LGA, where logistics items including food supplies were recovered.
“Items recovered include detergent, salt, and a carton of spaghetti, believed to be intended for sustaining insurgent elements. No own troops’ casualties were recorded,” the statement added.
In Yobe State, troops at Mainé checkpoint arrested a suspected collaborator, Ibrahim Alhaji Julo (30), while travelling in a red Golf vehicle with registration number KTG-397AA (Bauchi State). He was allegedly involved in conveying terrorist elements and facilitating illegal taxation within communities. Items recovered from him include a mobile phone and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The suspect is currently in custody for further investigation.
Reaffirming ongoing military efforts, the statement stressed the commitment of troops to sustained offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring peace in the region.
“The Joint Task Force assures the public of its unwavering commitment to sustaining aggressive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, rescuing abducted civilians, denying terrorists freedom of action, and restoring lasting peace, security and economic stability across the North East region,” the statement concluded.
The Military High Command also commended the troops for their professionalism, resilience, and continued operational success, urging them to maintain momentum in ongoing counterterrorism operations.