Troops Dismantle ISWAP Roadblock, Rescue 53 Hostages in Borno

June 26 () — Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have dismantled a roadblock mounted by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, rescuing 53 civilians and recovering eight vehicles seized during the attack.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the operation was carried out on Wednesday, June 24, by troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion under Sector 2 after surveillance cameras detected the insurgents mounting the illegal roadblock.

A Quick Reaction Force (QRF) was immediately deployed to the scene, pursued the fleeing terrorists toward the Mangari–Dora general area, engaged them in a firefight and forced them to retreat.

The military said the troops successfully rescued all 53 civilians held by the terrorists and recovered eight vehicles that had been seized during the operation.

The soldiers subsequently advanced to clear the insurgents’ withdrawal route, dominated the area, and conducted follow-up searches to prevent the terrorists from regrouping, although no further contact was established.

All rescued civilians, recovered vehicles and other properties were safely evacuated to Buratai town, where the victims are undergoing documentation and medical evaluation.

The Theatre Command described the operation as another significant success in the ongoing offensive against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), noting that it reflected the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the troops’ rapid response capability.

Captain Goni commended the professionalism, courage and swift response of the troops, saying their timely intervention prevented the terrorists from causing further harm to innocent road users.

He also urged residents across the Joint Operations Area to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information on suspicious movements and activities to support ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

“The general security situation within the area remains calm as troops continue to maintain an aggressive posture and dominance across the general area,” the statement added.