Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 10 National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers who were kidnapped by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during an attack on a secondary school in Lassa Community, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack occurred on Monday morning while students were writing their NECO examinations. The gunmen reportedly invaded the Technical Secondary School, fired several gunshots to create panic, abducted some students and teachers, and escaped into nearby bushes.
Following the incident, Operation HADIN KAI launched an immediate search-and-rescue mission involving both ground forces and air support. Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, alongside military aircraft, were deployed to monitor the terrorists’ movements and support troops on the ground.
Acting on intelligence gathered during the operation, security forces intercepted the fleeing insurgents around the Daggu axis, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. The troops overpowered the attackers, forcing them to abandon several of their captives while retreating.
The military successfully rescued 10 victims, including NECO candidates and teachers, all of whom were found alive. They have been moved to a secure location where they are receiving medical care and psychosocial support.
During the operation, troops also recovered seven motorcycles believed to belong to the terrorists, a development expected to limit the group’s mobility during future operations.
Sadly, the rescue mission claimed the lives of one soldier attached to Operation HADIN KAI and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), who died while confronting the insurgents.
Military authorities said additional troops have been deployed to continue the search for the remaining abducted victim while maintaining pressure on the fleeing terrorists. Security has also been reinforced around schools and vulnerable communities to prevent further attacks.
The military noted that terrorist groups have increasingly targeted civilian locations, including educational institutions, as they come under sustained pressure from security operations across the North-East.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians, securing schools and sustaining offensive operations until terrorist groups operating in the region are completely dismantled. Residents were also encouraged to remain vigilant and provide useful information to security agencies to support ongoing security efforts.
