By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) rescued 360 abductees from a terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains of southern Borno State on Saturday night. The operation targeted a Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) stronghold near the Ngoshe axis. Military forces carried out the mission after weeks of intelligence gathering and planning. The rescue operation freed men, women, and children held in captivity under harsh conditions. According to the military, the mission marked one of the largest hostage rescue operations in the North-East in recent years.
Weeks of Intelligence Led to Successful Rescue
The Acting Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna M. Sani, disclosed the development in a statement.
He explained that the operation followed weeks of intelligence collection, covert reconnaissance, and detailed operational planning.
According to him, military intelligence received credible information from multiple sources about the exact location of the hostages and the insurgents protecting them.
The intelligence team combined Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and continuous Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Unmanned aerial systems and long-range reconnaissance patrols also supported the effort.
As a result, commanders gained a detailed understanding of the terrain, terrorist positions, movement patterns, and the condition of the captives.
Intelligence Assets Penetrated Terrorist Network
The military said a major breakthrough came after intelligence assets successfully infiltrated the terrorist network.
These assets supplied real-time information on hostage locations, insurgent commanders, security arrangements, and planned relocation routes.
Furthermore, coordinated information and psychological operations created confusion among the insurgents. This weakened their command structure and reduced their ability to respond effectively.
Consequently, commanders gained a significant intelligence advantage before launching the assault.
Special Forces Launched Multi-Axis Assault
Acting on confirmed intelligence, OPHK Special Forces and Sector 1 troops launched a coordinated multi-axis operation.
The troops isolated the target area, secured key terrain, and blocked possible escape routes.
Meanwhile, assault teams infiltrated the enclave under the cover of darkness. Real-time ISR feeds guided the advancing forces throughout the mission.
The military stated that the operation achieved complete tactical surprise.
Terrorists Flee as Troops Secure Hostages
Faced with overwhelming military pressure, several insurgents abandoned their positions and fled into nearby mountainous areas.
Others surrendered during the operation.
Troops quickly secured the hostages, conducted medical screening, and evacuated them from the area.
The military described the mission as a major operational success and a significant setback for the terrorist group.
Two Infants Die During Evacuation
Despite the success, the military confirmed that two infants died from exhaustion caused by the difficult mountainous terrain and the hardship they endured during captivity.
The remaining abductees were evacuated safely and are receiving medical care and humanitarian assistance.
BOSYA Confirms Release of Ngoshe Abductees
The Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA) also confirmed the release of the abductees from Ngoshe.
Speaking by telephone with Channels Television, BOSYA President Samaila Ibrahim-Kaigama said all the abductees regained their freedom on Saturday night.
However, he disclosed that four babies born during captivity died from infections.
He added that their mothers are currently receiving treatment at a government health facility.
Group Hails Humanitarian Efforts
In an earlier statement, BOSYA expressed gratitude over the successful release.
The group said persistent advocacy, negotiations, and humanitarian engagements contributed to the outcome.
It also praised its leadership for supporting efforts aimed at securing the victims’ freedom.
“To the Ngoshe women and children who were released tonight, welcome home. Your return brings hope, joy, and relief to Southern Borno,” the statement read.
Military Vows Continued Operations
The Military High Command commended the courage, professionalism, and discipline displayed by troops involved in the mission.
It stated that the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and improved collaboration among security agencies.
The military also assured residents that follow-up clearance operations are ongoing.
According to the High Command, troops will continue efforts to eliminate remaining terrorist elements, dismantle support networks, and prevent future abductions.
Meanwhile, BOSYA urged the Federal Government, Borno State Government, and local authorities to conduct proper screening and rehabilitation of the rescued victims.
