Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have rescued 10 of the 11 National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers abducted by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during an attack on Lassa community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, noting that the attack occurred around 9 a.m. while students of Technical Secondary School were writing their NECO examinations.
According to the statement, the Theatre Command immediately launched a coordinated search-and-rescue mission involving ground troops, strike aircraft, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI.
The troops reportedly tracked the fleeing terrorists to the Daggu area, where they engaged them in a heavy gun duel.
“With aerial surveillance support, the troops successfully rescued 10 abducted victims unhurt. The rescued candidates and teachers are currently receiving appropriate care and support,” the statement said.
The military added that efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining abducted victim and apprehend the perpetrators of the attack.
During the operation, troops reportedly overpowered the terrorists, inflicting casualties and recovering seven motorcycles used in the operation, thereby disrupting their escape route.
However, the encounter claimed the lives of one soldier under Operation HADIN KAI and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
