By Seyi Odewale
The military has rescued 47 civilians, mostly women and children, from captivity following a major offensive against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Borno State.
The operation, carried out by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, marks one of the latest successes in ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in the Lake Chad region.
Military authorities said the victims regained their freedom after sustained ground and air assaults forced insurgents to abandon their positions in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area.
Acting Military Information Officer of the Theatre Command, Captain Mohammed Musa, said the rescue was recorded during coordinated operations conducted on June 20.
“The Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, has recorded yet another significant humanitarian success with the rescue of over 47 persons, mostly women and children, who were held captive by ISWAP terrorists,” he said.
According to him, relentless pressure mounted by troops on terrorist enclaves created the opportunity for the captives to escape from prolonged detention.
“The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity,” Musa added.
The rescue comes amid intensified military operations targeting insurgent strongholds around the Lake Chad Basin, where troops have continued to launch coordinated attacks on terrorist camps and logistics routes.
Military authorities said the rescued civilians are currently receiving medical attention and humanitarian support at a secure location.
Officials are also working with relevant agencies to facilitate their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The Theatre Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against ISWAP and other terrorist groups operating in the North-East.
It said the military remains focused on degrading terrorist capabilities, rescuing more captives and restoring lasting peace across the region.
The latest rescue underscores the humanitarian dimension of the counter-insurgency campaign, which has seen thousands of civilians freed from terrorist captivity over the years as security forces intensify pressure on insurgent groups.
