Troops dismantle ISWAP roadblock in Borno, rescuing 53 people and recovering eight vehicles

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai dismantled an ISWAP roadblock on the Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, rescuing 53 civilians and recovering eight vehicles that had been seized by the insurgents.

The operation was announced in a statement from the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, signed by Acting Military Information Officer Captain Mohammed Goni on 25 June 2026.

According to the statement, the action took place on 24 June 2026, carried out by the 135 Special Forces Battalion under Sector 2 of Operation Hadin Kai.

Troops stationed at Dutse Kura detected suspected terrorists blocking the highway through surveillance cameras, prompting the immediate deployment of a Quick Reaction Force to the area.

The statement noted that the troops chased the fleeing insurgents toward the Mangari–Dora general area, where they engaged them in a gun battle that forced the suspects to retreat.

After the operation, the troops rescued 53 civilians and recovered eight vehicles that had allegedly been seized by the terrorists.

The military added that troops subsequently cleared the suspected withdrawal route of the insurgents and conducted further searches in the area, although no additional contact was made.

All rescued civilians, recovered vehicles and other properties were safely evacuated to Buratai town, where the victims are currently undergoing documentation and medical evaluation.

The Theatre Command praised the troops for their professionalism and swift response during the operation.

“The Theatre Command OPHK commends the professionalism and swift response of the troops,” the statement said.

The military urged residents within the Joint Operations Area to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.

The military added that the security situation in the area remains calm, while troops continue offensive operations and maintain dominance across the area.