Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 53 civilians and recovered eight vehicles after thwarting a suspected roadblock mounted by Islamic State West Africa Province and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad terrorists along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Punch reported that the Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement shared on its X handle on Friday.
The statement was signed by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Capt. Mohammed Goni.
According to the military, the operation was conducted on June 24 after troops detected suspicious activity on the highway.
“The encounter took place when troops deployed at Dutse Kura sighted terrorists blocking the highway through surveillance cameras.
“A Quick Reaction Force (QRF) team immediately mobilized to the scene and pursued the insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora general area, made contact and engaged the terrorists in a firefight, forcing them to withdraw in confusion.
“During the operation, troops successfully rescued 53 innocent civilians and also recovered 8 vehicles seized by the terrorists,” the statement read.
The Army said troops subsequently cleared and secured the terrorists’ escape route, maintaining dominance of the area while carrying out additional searches. However, no further contact with the fleeing insurgents was recorded.
“All rescued persons, recovered vehicles and properties were safely moved to Buratai town. The rescued civilians are currently undergoing documentation and medical evaluations,” the statement added.
The military praised the troops for their prompt action and professionalism during the mission, noting that their swift response prevented further harm to civilians.
It also called on residents across the theatre of operations to remain alert and continue supporting security efforts by reporting suspicious movements and activities.
Borno remains the epicentre of Nigeria’s prolonged insurgency, which began in 2009 following the emergence of Boko Haram and its campaign against Western education and state institutions.
The state has continued to witness attacks targeting both civilians and security personnel despite ongoing military offensives.
The latest operation follows other recent gains recorded by Operation HADIN KAI, including the elimination of 27 terrorists in the Southern and Northern Tumbus areas of Borno earlier this month.
