Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully rescued six abducted civilians in Ngoshe community, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, following sustained military offensives against terrorist enclaves in the Mandara Mountains.
The Joint Task Force (North East) disclosed that the rescue occurred in the early hours of May 1, 2026, as troops returned from an overnight operation targeting insurgent hideouts. Acting on credible intelligence, the soldiers intercepted and rescued the victims near Amuda, a deserted area between Ngoshe and Gava known for terrorist movements.
The rescued individuals include Zainab Idris (18), Fatima Abubakar (17), Maimuna Abdulrashid (24), and three children—Muhammad Idris (1), Sadiq Abdullahi (7), and Fatima Abdulrashid (5). According to preliminary findings, they were among residents abducted during a террорист attack on Ngoshe on March 3, 2026, and had been held captive in Gava before managing to escape.
During the operation, troops reportedly came under sporadic fire from fleeing террористs attempting to recapture the escapees. The soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat into the mountainous terrain.
Military authorities linked the successful rescue to increased operational pressure on insurgents, which has reportedly weakened their structure and triggered internal disarray. Intelligence sources indicated growing desperation among террорист elements, especially following recent losses and multiple escape incidents involving captives.
The rescued victims were immediately given first aid and medical attention at a military facility before being handed over to community leaders. They were later reunited with their families in an emotional ceremony facilitated by the Wali of Ngoshe, Alhaji Shuaibu Dabawa, and witnessed by residents.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed their commitment to protecting communities, rescuing abducted persons, and eliminating insurgent threats across the North East. They also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing military operations.
