Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have rescued more than 47 persons, mostly women and children, who were held captive by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, fighters in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni.
According to the statement, the victims were rescued on June 20, 2026, following sustained military operations targeting ISWAP enclaves in the Lake Chad region.
The military said continuous ground and air offensives mounted by troops forced the terrorists to abandon their positions, creating an opportunity for the captives to regain their freedom.
“The successful rescue operation was made possible through sustained aggressive pressure and relentless offensive operations conducted by OPHK troops against ISWAP enclaves in the Lake Chad region,” the statement said.
Military authorities said the sustained offensive disrupted activities within the terrorist camps, creating an opportunity for the captives to break free.
“The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity,” the statement added.
According to Operation HADIN KAI, the rescued persons have been moved to a secure location where they are receiving medical attention and humanitarian support.
The military further disclosed that relevant agencies are working to facilitate the reintegration of the victims into their communities.
“This rescue further highlights the commitment of OPHK troops to not only degrade terrorist capabilities but also to secure the release of innocent civilians held against their will,” the statement said.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining military operations across the North-East, noting that efforts would continue to dismantle remaining terrorist networks and restore peace to affected communities.
