Troops Rescue 47 Captives as Offensive Operations Force ISWAP Retreat in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have rescued more than 47 persons, mostly women and children, who were held captive by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The rescue operation was carried out on June 20, 2026, following sustained military offensives against terrorist strongholds in the Lake Chad region.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the successful operation was made possible through relentless ground and air assaults that weakened ISWAP positions and forced the insurgents to abandon their enclaves.

The military said the intense pressure mounted by troops created an opportunity for the captives to escape from prolonged detention and 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. The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity,” the statement said.

The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical attention at a secure location, while humanitarian assistance is being provided in collaboration with relevant agencies to support their recovery and reintegration into society.

Military authorities described the operation as another major humanitarian success in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign in the North-East, emphasizing that the mission of Operation HADIN KAI extends beyond combating terrorists to securing the freedom and safety of civilians affected by the conflict.

The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at dismantling the remaining ISWAP networks and restoring lasting peace and stability across the region.

The rescue comes amid intensified military operations around the Lake Chad basin, a known stronghold of terrorist groups operating in parts of Borno State and neighbouring countries.