Nigerian military forces foiled an abduction attempt at the Federal Polytechnic Monguno in Borno State early Sunday morning, but some students were fatally struck by terrorist gunfire during the operation. Joint security forces, including troops of Operation Hardin Kai and Nigeria Police Mobile Force (MOPOL), intercepted Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists attempting to abduct students around 1:30 a.m.
Casualties and Evacuation
The exact number of students killed and injured has not been confirmed, but the military stated that 46 students have been evacuated to a military facility for medical examination and care. Brigadier General Mohammed Goni, acting spokesperson for the task force, confirmed that the kidnap attempt was successfully foiled and extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
Attack Details
The terrorists targeted the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC) Monguno, which currently serves as temporary hostel accommodation for the polytechnic students. According to Goni, the terrorists gained access with the help of suspected collaborators. Security forces responded swiftly, engaging the terrorists with coordinated firepower. The Sector 3 Quick Reaction Force (QRF) reinforced the school, and the terrorists were overpowered, fleeing in confusion without abducting any students.
During the encounter, parts of the school infrastructure sustained damage. All rescued students have been confirmed medically stable, and no student was abducted. However, some students were fatally struck by sporadic gunfire from the terrorists during the firefight.
Ongoing Operations
Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the suspected collaborators, while troops and other security agencies are actively tracking the fleeing terrorists. Goni stated that the task force, in liaison with the Borno State Government, will safeguard lives and protect critical public institutions across the North-east.
Rising Trend of Mass Abductions
Mass abductions of students in Nigeria began in 2014 under former President Goodluck Jonathan with the Chibok kidnapping of over 200 schoolgirls. Under President Muhammadu Buhari, 1,360 students were kidnapped in 16 incidents. The crisis has continued under President Bola Tinubu, with 15 incidents involving more than 700 students. Recent cases include abductions in Oyo, Borno, and Kogi states. While those in Oyo and Kogi have been freed, over 70 students from Borno schools remain in captivity.
