\n\nTroops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have rescued 47 people, mostly women and children, who were being held captive by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The military disclosed that the rescue operation was carried out on Saturday, June 20, 2026, during a coordinated offensive against terrorist positions in the Lake Chad region.
Acting Military Information Officer of the Theatre Command, Captain Mohammed Musa, said the successful operation followed sustained military pressure and aggressive attacks against ISWAP enclaves, forcing the insurgents to abandon their positions and allowing the captives to escape.
According to the military, the rescued victims had spent an extended period in captivity before they were freed during the operation.
Captain Musa stated that troops intensified both ground and air offensives against terrorist hideouts, creating an opportunity for the victims 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,” he said.
He explained that the military action forced the terrorists to retreat in confusion, enabling the captives to escape from their prolonged detention.
Following their rescue, the victims were moved to a secure location where they are currently receiving medical attention and psychological support from healthcare professionals.
The military added that humanitarian assistance is being provided in collaboration with relevant agencies to support the victims’ recovery and eventual reintegration into their communities.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians, weakening terrorist networks, and securing the release of people held against their will by insurgent groups.
It also stated that Operation Hadin Kai would continue its offensive operations aimed at dismantling remaining ISWAP structures and restoring peace and stability across the North East region.
The latest rescue operation represents another effort by security forces to recover civilians affected by years of insurgency in Borno State, where communities around the Lake Chad area have faced repeated attacks and abductions by terrorist groups.
