Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) successfully thwarted a large-scale kidnapping attempt by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists on Monday, rescuing over 150 civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya axis.
The encounter occurred at approximately 2:50 PM on March 30, 2026, as troops from Sector 2, stationed at Dutse Kura, were escorting a convoy of civilians. During the firefight, surveillance assets spotted the insurgents attempting to drive a large group of men, women, and children into the bush using a fleet of 17 vehicles.
In a rapid counter-offensive, the Quick Response Force (QRF) reinforced the unit, repelling the initial attack and pursuing the terrorists toward the Mangari area. Under heavy pressure from the military, the insurgents were forced to abandon the abducted civilians and their vehicles before fleeing.
“This successful operation highlights the high level of vigilance and rapid response capability of our forces, particularly as the Easter period approaches,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for OPHK.
All 150 rescued civilians were recovered unharmed and moved to Buratai for onward movement to reunite with their families. However, the pursuit of the fleeing terrorists resulted in casualties for the security forces. Five personnel sustained severe injuries after encountering an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis. The wounded soldiers were promptly evacuated for specialist medical care.
The military command reiterated its commitment to maintaining operational dominance in the North East, assuring the public that offensive pressure will be sustained to ensure a peaceful holiday period and long-term stabilisation in the region. #Securitynewsalert.com.
