Defense and Security
360 Abductees Rescued as Troops Storm Terrorist Stronghold in Mandara Mountains
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully rescued 360 abductees from a heavily fortified Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorist enclave located deep within the Mandara Mountains in southern Borno State.
The rescued victims, comprising men, women, and children, had been held captive under harsh conditions after being abducted from several communities, particularly within the Ngoshe axis. The operation is regarded as one of the most significant hostage rescue missions conducted in the North East theatre in recent years.
According to military sources, the operation was the result of weeks of meticulous intelligence gathering, covert reconnaissance, and detailed operational planning by troops of Sector 1 and Special Forces under Operation HADIN KAI.
The mission was launched after security agencies received credible intelligence from multiple sources pinpointing the location of the hostages and identifying an extensive insurgent support network sustaining the enclave. Intelligence personnel subsequently conducted a comprehensive target development process, integrating Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets, including unmanned aerial systems and long-range reconnaissance patrols.
The intelligence effort enabled commanders to gain a detailed understanding of the difficult terrain, insurgent positions, defensive structures, movement patterns, and the condition of the captives. This information proved critical in planning and executing the operation while minimizing risks to the hostages.
A major breakthrough reportedly came through the successful infiltration of the terrorist network by intelligence assets working under the supervision of military intelligence personnel. The sources provided real-time information on the exact locations of the abductees, the disposition of insurgent commanders, internal security arrangements, and planned movement routes.
In addition, coordinated information and psychological operations reportedly created confusion and mistrust within the insurgent ranks, weakening their cohesion and disrupting command and control structures ahead of the assault.
Military authorities said the operation demonstrates the increasing intelligence capability, operational reach, and tactical effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI in dismantling terrorist networks, protecting vulnerable communities, and denying insurgents freedom of movement across the North East.
The rescued victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation, profiling, and psychosocial support, while efforts continue to track down remaining terrorist elements operating within the Mandara Mountains and surrounding areas.