Troops of operation Hadin Kai rescued three children abducted two months ago and neutralised five ISWAP terrorists in Borno State on Saturday.
Lt Col Sanni Uba, Media Information Officer, Joint Taskforce, northeast operation Hadin, said, “troops of the joint task force (north east) operation HADIN KAI have sustained aggressive offensive and stabilisation operations across the theatre.
“They successfully thwarted a terrorist attack, neutralised insurgents, and rescued kidnapped civilians in separate operations conducted on 20–21 February 2026.
“In a major encounter, troops of Sector 1, while on fighting patrol, made contact with suspected JAS/ISWAP terrorists around Sabsawa village in Borno State.
“The troops responded with overwhelming firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee in disarray. During exploitation, five terrorists were neutralised.”
Lt Col Uba also confirmed the rescue of three children, Abba Abba (12), Fatima Abba (8), and Aisha Abba (6) from Ngurosoye in Bama Local Government Area.
He further reported that an 18-year-old terrorist, Abubakar Abubakar, surrendered in Geidam, Yobe State, and is currently in custody for profiling.
“Preliminary investigation revealed the victims were abducted about two months ago along the Gubio axis by suspected terrorists before being moved to Bula-Daloye.
“The children have been handed over to the Nigeria Police for further action.
“All operations were largely hitch-free, while ongoing exploitation and monitoring continue across the theatre.
“The military high command commended the troops for their sustained morale and fighting efficiency, assuring that pressure on terrorist elements will be maintained until lasting peace and economic stability are achieved in the North East region,” he added.
