Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have foiled an attempted mass abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Borno State, rescuing over 150 civilians.

The operation occurred along the Buratai–Kamuya axis on Monday while soldiers were escorting travellers. According to the Military, the insurgents had planned to abduct men, women, and children travelling in about 17 vehicles.

The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Sani Uba, said troops came under attack but responded swiftly, engaging the terrorists and calling in reinforcements.

He explained that surveillance assets detected the abduction attempt, prompting a rapid response by a Quick Reaction Force, which repelled the attackers and pursued them towards the Mangari area.

The pressure from troops forced the terrorists to abandon the victims and vehicles, effectively stopping the mass kidnapping. All rescued civilians were safely moved to Buratai for onward reunification with their families.

During the pursuit, troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis, leaving five personnel seriously injured. They were evacuated for medical treatment.

The military said the successful operation demonstrates its commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining pressure on terrorist groups in the North-East, particularly as security operations intensify ahead of the Easter period.