Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 360 abductees from a fortified Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) enclave in the Mandara Mountains of southern Borno State.
The rescue was carried out during a major intelligence-driven offensive against terrorist networks in the North East theatre.
The operation, involving Special Forces and troops of Sector 1, marks a significant disruption of terrorist captivity networks and highlights the increasing role of intelligence superiority, surveillance capabilities and precision operations in the North East theatre.
It followed credible intelligence that revealed the location of the abductees and the support structure sustaining the terrorist enclave, as contained in a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna M. Sani.
The OPHK intelligence elements conducted extensive target development through Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations, including unmanned aerial systems and long-range reconnaissance patrols.
Voice of Nigeria reports that “the intelligence process enabled commanders to understand the terrain, terrorist movements, defensive arrangements and the condition of the captives before launching the rescue mission.”
The Army said “further operational intelligence provided troops with critical information on the location of the abductees, insurgent leadership structure, internal security measures and planned movement routes.
“The intelligence advantage allowed OPHK forces to shape the operational environment before the assault phase, disrupting terrorist coordination and reducing their ability to respond effectively.”
Acting on confirmed information, Special Forces and Sector 1 troops launched a coordinated multi-axis operation designed to isolate the enclave, dominate key areas and prevent reinforcement or escape.
Supported by real-time surveillance feeds, troops infiltrated the objective area and achieved tactical surprise, forcing several terrorists to abandon their positions and flee into surrounding mountainous areas, while others surrendered.
“The rescued abductees, comprising men, women and children, were secured, medically assessed and evacuated to safe locations for further care.
The operation recorded a tragic loss of two infants who succumbed due to exhaustion arising from the difficult terrain and prolonged captivity conditions,” the statement reads.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their courage, professionalism and discipline, noting that “the rescue operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led counterterrorism efforts and growing operational coordination among security actors.”
The Armed Forces of Nigeria further promised that follow-on operations remain ongoing to clear residual terrorist elements, dismantle support networks and prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.
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