Borno: Troops dismantle ISWAP roadblock, rescue 53 hostages

In continuation of the massive onslaught against JAS/ISWAP in the North East Region, Sector 2 troops of 135 Special Forces Battalion under Operation HADIN KAI have dismantled JAS/ISWAP terrorists’ road block mounted along the road Buratai–Kamuya, in Biu Local Government Area of Borno, and rescued 53 innocent civilians, recovered 8 vehicles on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.

This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Friday by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI MAIDUGURI, Captain Mohammed Goni.

According to the statement, ” the encounter took place when troops deployed at Dutse Kura sighted terrorists blocking the highway through surveillance cameras.

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“A Quick Reaction Force (QRF) team immediately mobilised to the scene and pursued the insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora general area, made contact and engaged the terrorists in a firefight, forcing them to withdraw in confusion.

The statement further explained that during the operation, troops successfully rescued 53 innocent civilians and also recovered 8 vehicles seized by the terrorists.

It added that the troops further advanced to clear the insurgents’ withdrawal route, dominated the area, and conducted further searches, though no additional contact was made.

It pointed out that all rescued persons, recovered vehicles, and properties were safely moved to Buratai town, while the rescued civilians were currently undergoing documentation and medical evaluations.

The statement added that the Theatre Command OPHK commended the professionalism and swift response of the troops and urged all citizens within the Joint Operations Area to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely information regarding any suspicious movements and activities within their domain.