53 rescued as troops dismantle ISWAP roadblock, recover eight vehicles in Borno
Troops Dismantle ISWAP Roadblock in Borno, Rescue 53 Civilians
Borno State, Nigeria — Troops from Operation Hadin Kai dismantled an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) roadblock along the Buratai–Kamuya road in the Biu Local Government Area, rescuing 53 civilians and recovering eight vehicles believed to have been seized by the insurgents.
The operation occurred on June 24, 2026, and was detailed in a statement released by the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai. The statement was signed by Acting Military Information Officer Captain Mohammed Goni.
According to the statement, troops from the 135 Special Forces Battalion, operating under Sector 2 of the mission, detected the roadblock through surveillance cameras positioned in the area. In response, a Quick Reaction Force was immediately deployed.
The military reported that the troops pursued the fleeing insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora area, where a firefight ensued, ultimately forcing the militants to retreat.
After the operation, troops successfully rescued the 53 civilians and recovered the eight vehicles. Following their engagement with the insurgents, military personnel cleared the route the terrorists reportedly used for escape and conducted additional searches. No further contact with the insurgents was reported.
All rescued civilians and recovered vehicles were safely transported to Buratai town, where the victims are currently undergoing documentation and medical evaluation.
The Theatre Command praised the troops for their professionalism and swift response during the operation, calling their actions commendable.
“The Theatre Command OPHK commends the professionalism and swift response of the troops,” the statement noted.
The military has encouraged residents within the Joint Operations Area to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to security agencies. The overall security situation in the area has been described as calm, with troops continuing offensive operations to maintain control.
