The Nigerian Army has rescued 75 civilian captives from Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorist strongholds in the notorious Sambisa Forest, Borno State. The operation was carried out under Operation Desert Sanity IV by troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade and 199 Special Forces Battalion.
The Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Maj. Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, disclosed this during a handover ceremony at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri. Represented by Deputy Theatre Commander, Brig. Gen. Anthony Okpodu, he stated that the operation successfully dismantled terrorist enclaves in key locations, including Ukuba, Njimia, Sabil Huda, Garin Falluja, and Gobara.
“The operation significantly degraded enemy capabilities by neutralizing insurgents, destroying command and logistics bases, makeshift shelters, weapon caches, and IED-making materials,” Gen. Okpodu said.
The rescued individuals include seven adult males, 34 women, and 34 children. They have received medical attention, food, clothing, and psychological support in preparation for reintegration efforts.
The Borno State government, represented by Hajiya Aisha Shettima, Director of Social Welfare in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, commended the military’s efforts and assured that the victims would be rehabilitated and provided with necessary support.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating insurgency threats, protecting civilian populations, and ensuring the restoration of normalcy in the North-East.