The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has rescued 47 people, mostly women and children, from captivity in an ISWAP enclave in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to a statement issued by Acting Military Information Officer of the Theatre Command, Captain Mohammed Musa, the rescue took place on June 20, 2026, following sustained military offensives against terrorist strongholds in the Lake Chad region.
Captain Musa said the operation was made possible by coordinated ground and air assaults that placed intense pressure on ISWAP fighters, forcing them to abandon their positions and leaving the captives an opportunity to escape.
“The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity,” he stated.
The rescued individuals are receiving medical attention at a secure location, while humanitarian support is being provided in collaboration with relevant agencies to facilitate their reintegration into society.
The military said the rescue highlights the continued efforts of Operation Hadin Kai not only to weaken terrorist groups operating in the North East but also to secure the freedom of civilians held captive by insurgents.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at dismantling remaining ISWAP networks and restoring peace and normalcy across the region.