The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has rescued 47 persons, mostly women and children, who were held captive by ISWAP terrorists in Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Acting Military Information Officer of the Theatre Command, Captain Mohammed Musa, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the rescue operation was carried out on Saturday, June 20, 2026, during a coordinated military offensive that forced the terrorists to abandon their captives.
“The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), 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, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State on 20 June 2026”
“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. The unrelenting ground and air offensives forced the terrorists to abandon their positions in confusion, enabling the victims to escape from prolonged captivity”
The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical attention at a secure facility, while humanitarian support is being coordinated with relevant agencies to aid their recovery and reintegration.
He also reaffirmed the military’s commitment to degrading terrorist networks and securing the release of civilians still in captivity.
The Theatre Command further pledged to sustain offensive operations aimed at dismantling remaining ISWAP strongholds and restoring lasting peace across the North East region.