By Our Correspondent
National News – Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have foiled a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram terrorists along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Borno State, rescuing more than 150 travellers who were being escorted through the volatile area.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, March 30, 2026, when insurgents attempted to intercept a convoy of civilian vehicles and abduct passengers into the bush.
According to the Media Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the attack happened around 2:50 pm while soldiers were providing security escort to travellers moving through the axis, an area known for insurgent activity.
The terrorists reportedly targeted civilians travelling in about 17 vehicles, including men, women and children.
Uba explained that the troops quickly engaged the attackers in a fierce firefight after surveillance assets detected the insurgents’ attempt to force the vehicles off the road and move the passengers into the bush for abduction.
Acting swiftly, the military deployed a Quick Reaction Force to reinforce the soldiers at the scene.
The rapid response and sustained military pressure forced the terrorists to abandon their plan and flee the area.
As a result, all the abducted civilians and vehicles were recovered safely, preventing what could have become one of the largest kidnappings in the region in recent months.
Following the rescue operation, the freed travellers were moved to Buratai for further security screening and arrangements to reunite them with their families.
However, the operation was not without casualties. During the pursuit of the fleeing terrorists along the Bula Zarma–Mangari route, troops encountered an improvised explosive device planted by the insurgents.
The explosion left five soldiers seriously injured. They were immediately evacuated to a medical facility for specialist treatment.
Military authorities praised the troops for their bravery and resilience, stating that the successful operation demonstrates the armed forces’ vigilance and readiness to protect civilians in Nigeria’s North-East.
The High Command also reassured residents that operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents will continue with intensified efforts, particularly as the Easter period approaches, to prevent attacks and maintain security across the region.
