Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have carried out a major intelligence-led rescue operation in Borno State, freeing 360 abductees from a Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) enclave hidden deep within the Mandara Mountains.
The operation, which involved Special Forces and troops of Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force (North East), is being described as one of the most significant hostage rescue missions in the region in recent times.
According to a statement by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna Sani, the breakthrough followed weeks of sustained intelligence gathering, covert reconnaissance, and detailed operational planning.
He explained that credible intelligence from multiple sources led troops to the precise location of the abductees, who had been held under harsh conditions after being kidnapped from several communities, particularly around the Ngoshe axis.
The military said the mission was made possible through a coordinated intelligence effort involving human intelligence, signals intelligence, and continuous aerial surveillance using unmanned systems. These inputs helped troops map the terrain, monitor insurgent activity, and identify weaknesses within the terrorist enclave ahead of the operation.
Acting on confirmed intelligence, troops launched a carefully coordinated multi-axis assault under the cover of darkness. While blocking forces sealed off possible escape routes, Special Forces advanced on the target area, achieving complete tactical surprise.
The troops overwhelmed the terrorists before they could mount any organised resistance. Several insurgents reportedly fled into the surrounding mountains, while others surrendered as the operation unfolded.
All 360 abductees were successfully rescued, medically screened, and moved to safe locations where they are receiving humanitarian support.
However, the military confirmed the tragic loss of two infants, who died from exhaustion following the difficult terrain and prolonged conditions of captivity.
Operation HADIN KAI described the mission as a decisive success and a major setback for the terrorist group, noting that it demonstrates the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations in the North East.
The Military High Command praised the troops for their courage, professionalism, and precision, adding that the operation reflects improved coordination among security agencies and sustained pressure on terrorist networks.
It also assured that follow-up clearance operations are ongoing to track fleeing insurgents, dismantle remaining support structures, and prevent future abductions across the theatre.