Nigerian troops from Operation Hadin Kai have successfully rescued 47 persons, mainly women and children, who were held captive by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The humanitarian operation took place on Saturday 20 June 2026 and was announced on Monday by the military.
Acting Military Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force North-East Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Mohammed Goni, said the rescue resulted from sustained ground and air offensives against terrorist hideouts in the Lake Chad region.
The intensified pressure forced the insurgents to flee in disarray, allowing the captives to regain their freedom.
“The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has recorded yet another significant humanitarian success with the rescue of over 47 persons, mostly women and children who were held captive by ISWAP terrorists in Kangarwa,” Capt. Goni stated.
He added that the rescued individuals are now receiving medical attention and humanitarian support at a secure location, with relevant agencies coordinating their eventual reintegration into society.
Borno State has remained the epicentre of the insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East for more than a decade, where thousands of civilians have been displaced, abducted or killed by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
In recent months, the military has stepped up operations across the Lake Chad basin and Sambisa Forest axis in a determined effort to degrade terrorist networks and restore stability to affected communities.
“This rescue further highlights the commitment of OPHK troops to not only degrade terrorist capabilities but also to secure the release of innocent civilians held against their will,” Capt. Goni noted.
The Theatre Command has reaffirmed its resolve to continue offensive operations aimed at dismantling remaining ISWAP cells and restoring peace across the region.
The latest success comes amid broader military efforts to tackle insecurity in the North-East through stronger inter-agency collaboration and relentless pressure on terrorist enclaves.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
