By Sumaila Ogbaje
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have rescued 92 kidnapped civilians and foiled an improvised explosive device (IED) ambush in a swift rescue operation along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno.
This is contained in a statement by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, on Sunday.
Uba said the operation was carried out by troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion deployed at Dutse Kura, following detection of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists moving abducted civilians and vehicles into the bush at about 1122 hours.
He said the troops immediately deployed a Quick Reaction Force, with reinforcement from the 27 Task Force Brigade Garrison, to intercept the terrorists.
He said the coordinated pursuit forced the insurgents to abandon their captives and flee in disarray towards the Mangari–Dora general area.
According to him, a total of 92 kidnapped victims comprising 52 males, 33 females and seven children, as well as eight vehicles, were successfully rescued.
“The fleeing terrorists, in a bid to delay pursuit, reportedly planted three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis.
“Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams swiftly responded and successfully neutralised all three devices, clearing the route for continued pursuit operations.
“Troops advanced about five kilometres beyond the Mangari general area, while follow-up search operations indicated that the terrorists had dispersed in disarray, abandoning their objectives,” he said.
Uba confirmed that no personnel or equipment casualties were recorded during the operation.
He said the rescued civilians were provided with immediate welfare support and escorted to Damaturu for onward movement to their destinations.
According to him, the military high command commended the troops for their professionalism and swift response, describing the operation as a demonstration of improved surveillance capability, operational reach and combat readiness.
He reiterated the resolve of the theatre command to sustain pressure on terrorist elements and ensure the protection of civilians across the North East theatre.
(NAN)
