Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have rescued six abducted civilians and reunited them with their families in Ngoshe community, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The rescue, which took place in the early hours of May 1, 2026, followed sustained military offensives, including air interdiction missions targeting terrorist hideouts in the Mandara Mountains. Acting on credible intelligence, troops intercepted the victims around Amuda, a deserted area between Ngoshe and Gava known for terrorist movements.
The rescued victims—identified as Zainab Idris (18), Fatima Abubakar (17), Maimuna Abdulrashid (24), and three children—were reportedly abducted during a terrorist attack on Ngoshe on March 3, 2026. They had been held in captivity at a terrorist enclave in Gava before managing to escape.
During the operation, troops came under sporadic gunfire from fleeing terrorists attempting to recapture the victims. The soldiers responded with force, engaging the attackers and compelling them to retreat into the mountainous terrain.
Military authorities said the rescue was part of intensified operations that have weakened terrorist networks in the region, leading to disarray within their ranks and increased escape attempts by captives.
The victims were given immediate medical attention before being handed over to community leaders. They were later reunited with their families in an emotional ceremony facilitated by the Wali of Ngoshe, Alhaji Shuaibu Dabawa, and attended by residents.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to securing all communities, rescuing abducted persons, and eliminating terrorist elements across the North East. Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high as operations continue with renewed vigour,” the military said.
The military high command also commended the troops for their performance and urged them to sustain aggressive operations while calling on the public to continue providing credible information to support ongoing efforts.
