Nigerian Army rescues 360 abducted women and children in Borno, two infants die during operation

The Nigerian Army says troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working alongside Special Operations Forces, have rescued 360 civilians—mostly women and children—who were abducted by terrorists from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

According to the Theatre Commander of the North East Joint Task Force, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, the rescue operation was carried out on June 6 across multiple locations around the Mandara Mountains.

He explained that preliminary special operations created disruption within terrorist camps, allowing ground troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade to successfully evacuate the captives.

The victims were originally abducted during an attack on Ngoshe community on March 3, 2026. During the rescue, however, two infants reportedly died due to the difficult terrain encountered while moving the freed civilians to safety.

All rescued persons were medically screened upon arrival, while those requiring urgent care were stabilized and admitted to the General Hospital in Gwoza. Food and water were also provided before they were moved to a secure facility for documentation and reunification with families.

The Army said the operation marked a significant breakthrough in ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region.

Meanwhile, a community group, the Borno South Youth Alliance, confirmed that it played a mediatory role in negotiations that contributed to the release of the victims.

The group also stated that about 416 women and children were initially abducted, adding that sustained communication efforts helped secure their release.

Authorities have urged proper screening and documentation of the freed individuals to support reintegration efforts.

Nigerian Army officials say operations in the North-East will continue as part of broader efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and secure affected communities.

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