Three Civilians Escape Boko Haram Captivity, Handed Over to Nigerian Army in Borno
Troops of the Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, have taken custody of three civilians who managed to escape from Boko Haram terrorists in the Gwoza axis of Borno State. The escapees, comprising two adult women and a minor, arrived at the military location on March 14, 2026, after fleeing their captors who had abducted them during a recent assault on the Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area.
Identification and Initial Screening of the Escapees
Military sources, as reported by security analyst Zagazola Makama, identified the individuals as Aishatu Dahiru, aged 67; Aisha Ali, aged 43; and Asta Ali, a minor. During preliminary screening, the victims revealed that they were initially taken to a terrorist enclave in Gava following their abduction. Other captives from the same incident were reportedly moved to camps located in Chinene and Ghiraza, highlighting the dispersed nature of the insurgent operations in the region.
Revelations About the Ngoshe Attack and Coordinators
The escapees provided critical intelligence, stating that the insurgents responsible for the Ngoshe attack were mobilized from various camps to carry out the operation. They further alleged that two individuals, identified as Sule Shuaibu, also known as Dafa, and one Dabbaba, were among those who coordinated the assault. Notably, the pair were described as former members of local hybrid security forces in Ngoshe before allegedly defecting to the insurgent group, raising concerns about insider threats and the infiltration of community defense mechanisms.
Threats and Current Status of the Escapees
According to the victims, the terrorists had issued threats to abducted residents, warning that anyone attempting to escape towards Pulka town would be killed during future insurgent attacks on the area. This intimidation tactic underscores the harsh conditions faced by captives and the risks associated with escape attempts. Military sources confirmed that the escapees have been properly screened, documented, and provided with necessary assistance. They are currently in custody for further administrative procedures, ensuring their safety and facilitating ongoing investigations into the incident.
