Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have dismantled a terrorist roadblock mounted by suspected ISWAP insurgents along the Buratai-Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, rescuing 53 civilians and recovering eight vehicles.
The successful operation was carried out on Wednesday, June 24, by troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion under Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI as part of ongoing offensives against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the North-East.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, troops stationed at Dutse Kura detected the insurgents blocking the highway through surveillance cameras.
Following the sighting, a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) team was immediately deployed to the area. The troops pursued the terrorists towards the Mangari-Dora general area, where they engaged them in a fierce gun battle.
“The troops made contact and engaged the terrorists in a firefight, forcing them to withdraw in confusion,” the statement said.
During the operation, the troops successfully rescued 53 civilians who had been held hostage by the insurgents. They also recovered eight vehicles earlier seized by the terrorists.
Military authorities said troops further advanced to clear and dominate the insurgents’ withdrawal route, conducting extensive searches of the area. However, no additional contact was made with the fleeing terrorists.
All rescued civilians, recovered vehicles and other properties were safely evacuated to Buratai town. The rescued persons are currently undergoing documentation and medical examinations.
The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and swift response in neutralising the threat and safeguarding innocent lives.
The command also urged residents within the Joint Operations Area to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.
Military authorities added that the security situation in the area remains calm, with troops maintaining an aggressive posture and sustained dominance across the general area.
