The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) says it has foiled a planned mass abduction of 150 travellers by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, along the Buratai-Kamuya axis in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.

A statement issued by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said the troops of the OPHK under Sector 2 deployed at Dutse Kura, came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai-Kamuya axis.

He stated that the troops under the OPHK decisively engaged the insurgents following their attempt to abduct a large number of civilians, comprising men, women and children, in about 17 vehicles into the bush.

He explained that the troops swiftly coordinated the response, "and the Quick Reaction Force rapidly reinforced the location, repelled the attack and immediately launched a pursuit towards the Mangari area."

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According to him, the aggressive pressure exerted by troops forced the terrorists to abandon all abducted civilians and vehicles, effectively thwarting the mass kidnapping attempt.

"During the pursuit, troops encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma-Mangari axis. Five personnel sustained severe injuries and were promptly evacuated for specialist medical care," he said.

Lt. Col. Uba revealed that all the rescued civilians, estimated to be over 150 were safely recovered and moved to Buratai for onward movement to reunite with their families.

He further stated that the successful rescue operation highlighted the high level of vigilance, rapid response capability and effective presence posture of OPHK forces across the North East.

While commending the troops for their gallantry and resilience, he urged them to sustain aggressive posture against terrorists, adding that their sacrifice underscored the resolve of OPHK to deny terrorists freedom of action and protect vulnerable populations across the Theatre.