In a remarkable display of courage and compassion, troops of Operation HADIN KAI have brought hope back to 12 families after rescuing seven women and five children from Boko Haram captivity in the unforgiving terrain of the Mandara Mountains.

The victims, who were on transit were abducted on 14 November along the Gwoza Limankara road. They regained their freedom on Sunday following a daring clearance mission conducted under Operation DESERT SANITY IV and Diligent Search.

Led by the vigilant 26 Task Force Brigade, with support from Hybrid Forces, Hunters and vigilantes, the troops launched a pre-dawn assault through the rugged mountain foothills toward Uvaha. The sheer intensity of troop firepower forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee.

Amid the chaos, the terrified victims scattered into the surrounding bushes, disoriented and exhausted from days in captivity. At about 8:45 a.m., they were safely recovered by troops who had continued searching the area to ensure no one was left behind.

Among those rescued are Fadi Musa, Jummai Manga, Hamsatu Musa, Jummai Ali, Inna Amadu, Falmata Musa, Hadiza Hamman, and five children. Many were visibly tired after trekking long distances when their abductors fled under fire. The troops immediately evacuated them to the brigade field ambulance, where they received urgent medical care for blisters, injuries, and the effects of beatings endured in captivity. After treatment and meals, they were formally handed over to the representative of the Chairman, Gwoza Local Government Area, for reunification with their families.

The military high command has praised the bravery, speed, and professionalism of the troops, acknowledging the vital contributions of security stakeholders and local informants whose timely intelligence made the rescue possible. Troops remain in active pursuit of ISWAP remnants across southern Borno to prevent further atrocities and ensure the safety of all civilians.