In a swift response to a terrorist abduction, troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued two high-profile individuals in Borno State. The operation, which unfolded on Wednesday, saw the safe recovery of a serving local government councillor and a prominent Islamic scholar.
Swift Military Response Leads to Rescue
The incident began on Tuesday at approximately 5:00 p.m. when terrorists ambushed and kidnapped seven civilians travelling along the volatile Buni Gari–Buratai road. Upon receiving the report, a combined force from the 27 Task Force Brigade and the 135 Special Forces Battalion, working with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), launched a search-and-rescue mission.
The operation commenced at 7:35 a.m. on Wednesday. The troops' aggressive advance pressured the kidnappers, who abandoned two of their captives near Mangari village by 11:35 a.m. after hearing the military's approach.
Identities of the Rescued Victims
The two individuals rescued were identified as key figures in their community. Alhaji Mohammed Ali Maiakachi is the serving councillor representing Zera/Wuyep Ward in Biu Local Government Area. The second victim is Mallam Aliyu Yusuf, a respected Islamic scholar who also serves as the Chairman of Shuaaraul Islam in Borno State.
Following their rescue, the troops immediately secured the victims and pursued the fleeing terrorists for about 5.4 kilometres. However, the assailants managed to evade capture, and no direct contact was made during the chase.
Ongoing Hunt for Remaining Captives
The rescued victims provided crucial information to the military, revealing that five other civilians are still being held captive by the terrorist group. This group includes significant local figures:
- The immediate past Vice Chairman of Biu Local Government Area.
- The current Vice Chairman of Biu Local Government Area.
- Three women who were abducted during the same attack.
A security source confirmed that the effort to rescue the remaining five civilians is ongoing, with troops intensifying search operations in the area.
After their ordeal, the two rescued men were initially taken to a medical reception station for necessary check-ups and treatment. They were subsequently moved to Biu, where they were joyfully reunited with their anxious families.
This operation underscores the persistent security challenges along major roads in parts of Borno State, even as the military continues its counter-insurgency campaign under Operation Hadin Kai.
