By Chimezie Godfrey
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have recorded a major counter-terrorism breakthrough with the rescue of 360 abductees from a heavily fortified Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) enclave in the Mandara Mountains of southern Borno State.
The unprecedented intelligence-led operation, conducted by Special Forces and troops of Sector 1, resulted in the safe recovery of hundreds of men, women and children who had been held captive by terrorists after being abducted from several communities, particularly within the Ngoshe axis.
Military authorities described the operation as one of the most significant hostage rescue missions carried out in the North East Theatre in recent times, underscoring the growing operational reach, intelligence dominance and tactical superiority of Operation HADIN KAI in protecting civilians and denying terrorists freedom of action.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Haruna M. Sani, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, the successful operation was the culmination of weeks of painstaking intelligence gathering, covert reconnaissance and detailed operational planning.
“The successful rescue of 360 abductees reflects the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations, the growing synergy among security stakeholders, and the unwavering resolve of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to protect innocent citizens and restore lasting peace to affected communities,” the Military High Command stated.
The operation was launched following credible intelligence from multiple sources that identified both the location of the hostages and the insurgent support structures sustaining the enclave.
Subsequently, intelligence elements of Operation HADIN KAI initiated an extensive target development process that integrated Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities supported by unmanned aerial systems and long-range reconnaissance patrols.
Military authorities explained that sustained intelligence collection and analysis enabled commanders to develop a detailed understanding of the terrain, terrorist dispositions, defensive arrangements, movement patterns and the condition of the abductees.
The intelligence-driven approach, according to the statement, facilitated accurate mapping of the objective area, identification of vulnerabilities within the terrorist network and minimisation of risks to the hostages during the rescue mission.
A critical breakthrough was reportedly achieved through the successful penetration of the terrorist network by intelligence assets operating under the supervision of military intelligence personnel.
The assets provided actionable intelligence on the exact locations of the abductees, the disposition of insurgent commanders, internal security measures and planned relocation routes.
In addition, coordinated information and psychological operations reportedly created confusion and mistrust among insurgent elements, disrupting command structures and weakening the cohesion of the terrorist group ahead of the operation.
Acting on the intelligence gathered, Special Forces and Sector 1 troops launched a meticulously coordinated multi-axis assault designed to isolate the objective area, dominate strategic terrain and prevent reinforcement or escape by insurgents.
Supported by real-time surveillance feeds, assault forces infiltrated the target area under cover of darkness while blocking units secured likely escape routes.
The operation achieved complete tactical surprise, overwhelming the terrorists before they could organise a meaningful response.
Faced with the speed and precision of the assault, several insurgents reportedly abandoned their positions and fled into surrounding mountainous areas, while others surrendered to advancing troops.
The rescued hostages were immediately secured, medically screened and evacuated from the enclave.
Military authorities, however, disclosed that two infants tragically died from exhaustion resulting from the harsh terrain and the difficult conditions endured during their prolonged captivity.
The remaining rescued victims were successfully evacuated to safe locations where they are receiving medical attention and humanitarian assistance.
The Military High Command commended the courage, professionalism and discipline displayed by personnel involved in the operation, describing the mission as a significant setback for the terrorist group.
It further reassured Nigerians that aggressive follow-up exploitation and clearance operations are ongoing to neutralise remaining terrorist elements, dismantle residual support networks and prevent future abductions across the theatre of operations.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations until lasting peace and security are restored to all communities affected by insurgency in the North-East.