Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled an attempted mass abduction by insurgents while escorting travellers along the Buratai–Kamuya axis in Borno State, rescuing more than 150 civilians in the process.
The development was disclosed in a statement by Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force.
According to him, the terrorists believed to be members of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attempted to abduct a large number of civilians travelling in about 17 vehicles before troops intervened.
Uba explained that the incident occurred at about 2:50 p.m. on March 30, 2026, when troops deployed under Sector 2 of Operation Hadin Kai came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya route.
The troops were stationed at Dutse Kura when the insurgents launched the attack.
While engaging the attackers, surveillance assets reportedly detected that the insurgents were attempting to force several travellers including men, women and children—into the bush for abduction.
The military spokesperson said troops responded swiftly to the situation.
A Quick Reaction Force was immediately deployed to reinforce the troops already on ground, enabling the soldiers to repel the attack and launch a pursuit operation toward the Mangari area.
According to the military, the aggressive response forced the insurgents to abandon the abducted civilians and the vehicles they had seized.
All rescued civilians, estimated at over 150, were safely recovered and moved to Buratai for onward movement to reunite with their families, Uba said.
During the pursuit of the fleeing terrorists along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis, troops reportedly encountered an improvised explosive device.
The explosion left five military personnel severely injured.
The injured soldiers were immediately evacuated to a medical facility where they are receiving specialised treatment.
Uba said the sacrifices made by the injured troops highlight the determination of the military to prevent terrorist groups from operating freely in the region.
The Nigerian military high command has commended the troops for their bravery and resilience in protecting civilians.
According to Uba, the successful rescue operation demonstrates the vigilance and rapid response capability of Operation Hadin Kai forces operating in the North-East.
He added that the military remains committed to stabilization efforts and sustained offensive operations against terrorist groups in the region, particularly as the Easter period approaches.
The latest development comes amid continued military operations against insurgents in the North-East.
Earlier in March, troops under Operation Hadin Kai neutralized several terrorists during coordinated midnight attacks on multiple military locations across Borno State, including Konduga, Marte, Jakana, and Mainok.
Security experts say such operations are critical to weakening the operational capacity of insurgent groups and protecting vulnerable communities across Nigeria’s conflict-affected region.
