Troops engaged in Operation HADIN KAI have successfully rescued twelve individuals abducted by Boko Haram insurgents, including seven women and five children, during a clearance mission in the Mandara Mountains, Borno State.
Okay News reports that, according to the Nigerian Army, the victims were kidnapped on November 14, 2025, while travelling along the Gwoza–Limankara Road. They were freed on Sunday following a coordinated military effort under Operation Desert Sanity IV and Operation Diligent Search.
Military sources disclosed that the mission was spearheaded by the 26 Task Force Brigade, with assistance from Hybrid Forces, hunters, and vigilante groups. The troops executed a pre-dawn advance through the foothills of the Mandara Mountains toward Uvaha, compelling the terrorists to flee and leave their captives behind.
The victims, who had scattered into nearby bushes during the assault, were located around 8:45 a.m. by soldiers conducting follow-up searches. An Army statement confirmed:
“Those rescued include Fadi Musa, Jummai Manga, Hamsatu Musa, Jummai Ali, Inna Amadu, Falmata Musa, Hadiza Hamman, and five children. Many of them were exhausted from trekking long distances and showed signs of blisters, injuries, and physical assault. They were taken to the brigade field ambulance for medical treatment and meals before being handed over to a representative of the Chairman, Gwoza Local Government Area, for reunification with their families.”
The military high command praised the troops for their swift intervention, commending the crucial role of security stakeholders and local informants for providing timely intelligence. Operations continue in southern Borno to track down remaining elements of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and prevent further attacks.
