Mothers, Children Walk Free After Military Offensive Cripples ISWAP Enclave

Mothers, Children Walk Free After Military Offensive Cripples ISWAP Enclave

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

At least 47 women and children have regained their freedom after troops of Operation Hadin Kai intensified military operations against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the Lake Chad region, forcing insurgents to abandon their strongholds and leaving behind dozens of captives who had endured prolonged detention.

The rescued victims, comprising mainly mothers and children from Damasak, Gashigar and Bags communities in Borno State, were freed from a terrorists’ hideout in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area following sustained offensive operations by the Northeast Joint Task Force under Operation Hadin Kai.

The military disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, who described the rescue as another significant humanitarian success in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North-East.

According to the statement, the rescue operation was achieved on June 20, 2026, as a result of relentless pressure mounted on ISWAP enclaves across the Lake Chad basin.

“The successful rescue operation was made possible through sustained aggressive pressure and relentless offensive operations conducted by OPHK troops against ISWAP enclaves in the Lake Chad region,” Uba stated.

He explained that coordinated ground and air assaults disrupted the terrorists’ activities and compelled them to flee their positions in confusion, creating an opportunity for the captives to escape.

“The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity,” he added.

The military spokesman said the rescued civilians are receiving medical attention and humanitarian assistance at a secure location. He noted that relevant agencies are working to ensure their rehabilitation and smooth reintegration into their communities.

Uba said the successful rescue of the 47 abductees reflects the military’s commitment not only to neutralising terrorist threats but also to securing the freedom and safety of innocent civilians caught in the conflict.

He reaffirmed the determination of Operation Hadin Kai to sustain its offensive against ISWAP and other terrorist groups, dismantle their remaining networks and restore lasting peace and stability across the North-East.

For the rescued women and children, the operation marks the end of a painful chapter and the beginning of a new journey back to their families and communities.