Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have rescued six abducted civilians, neutralized terrorists, and arrested suspected collaborators in ongoing clearance operations across parts of Borno and Yobe States.
Operation DESERT SANITY
The military stated that the operations were conducted under Operation DESERT SANITY and were based on credible intelligence targeting identified terrorist movement corridors in the region.
Rescue Mission in Mandara Mountains
In a clearance mission along the Mandara Mountains axis on 14 May 2026, troops intercepted and rescued six women and children who had been held captive by Boko Haram/ISWAP elements along the Amuda–Gava corridor in Gwoza area.
The rescued victims, all residents of Ngoshe community, include Amina Salihu (52), Aishatu Musa (50), twin sisters Hassana and Hussaina Abubakar (9 years each), Adamu Zakariyya (12), and Usman Zakariyya (10).
They were immediately taken into military care, where they received medical attention before being reunited with relatives through community leaders and religious authorities.
Military authorities said the latest rescue brings the total number of freed captives from the Ngoshe attack area to about 60 women and children since March 2026.
Offensive in Konduga
In separate operations in Konduga Local Government Area, troops reportedly neutralized two terrorists during an offensive against insurgent positions. Logistics items were recovered from the scene, including food supplies believed to be meant for sustaining fighters. No military casualties were recorded in the operations.
Arrest in Yobe State
In Yobe State, troops stationed at a checkpoint in Mainé arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator identified as Ibrahim Alhaji Julo. He was allegedly transporting insurgent logistics and assisting in illegal taxation activities within communities. A vehicle and communication device were recovered from him. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing investigation.
The military high command praised troops for sustained offensive operations across the theatre, describing the recent successes as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore stability in the North East. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining pressure on insurgents and ensuring the safe return of all abducted persons still in captivity.
