Troops dismantle ISWAP/JAS roadblock, rescue civilians along Buratai-Kamuya highway
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 53 civilians and recovered eight vehicles after dismantling a suspected ISWAP/JAS roadblock along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Nigerian Army announced the successful operation in a statement shared on its X handle Friday, signed by Acting Military Information Officer Capt. Mohammed Goni.
The operation took place Wednesday, June 24, when troops stationed at Dutse Kura detected terrorists blocking the highway through surveillance cameras, according to the statement.
A Quick Reaction Force (QRF) team was immediately mobilized to the scene and pursued the insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora general area. The troops engaged the terrorists in a firefight, forcing them to withdraw in confusion.
“During the operation, troops successfully rescued 53 innocent civilians and recovered eight vehicles seized by the terrorists,” the statement read.
The military said troops cleared the terrorists’ withdrawal route, dominated the area, and conducted further searches, though no additional contact was made.
All rescued persons, recovered vehicles, and properties were safely moved to Buratai town. The rescued civilians are currently undergoing documentation and medical evaluations.
The military commended the troops for their professionalism and swift response during the operation.
The command also urged residents within the theatre of operations to remain vigilant and continue providing security agencies with timely information on suspicious activities.
Borno State remains the epicentre of Nigeria’s long-running insurgency, which began in 2009 when Boko Haram launched its violent campaign against Western education and the Nigerian state. The state has experienced persistent insecurity, including attacks on civilians and military formations.
This latest rescue adds to a series of recent successes for Operation Hadin Kai, including the killing of 27 terrorists in the Southern and Northern Tumbus areas of Borno earlier this month.
