By Ganiyat Mumuni

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

The rescue operation, which took place on 20 June 2026, followed sustained military pressure and aggressive offensive operations against terrorist enclaves within the Lake Chad region.

According to the military, the intensified ground and air operations by OPHK troops forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in disarray, creating an opportunity for the captives to escape from prolonged captivity

The rescued victims have been moved to a secure location where they are currently receiving medical attention and necessary humanitarian support from relevant agencies.

The Theatre Command said the operation underscores the commitment of OPHK troops to protecting civilians, degrading terrorist capabilities and ensuring the safe recovery of persons held against their will.It added that efforts would be sustained to dismantle remaining ISWAP networks and restore peace and stability across the North East region

The Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, reaffirmed the military’s resolve to continue offensive operations against terrorist groups in the region.