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Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have rescued 10 National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers abducted by suspected ISWAP terrorists during an attack on a secondary school in Lassa Community, Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno.
The military said the victims were rescued following a coordinated land and air operation launched immediately after the attack, while efforts were ongoing to rescue one remaining victim.
The Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Capt. Mohammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Maiduguri.
According to him, the terrorists attacked the Technical Secondary School at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday while students were writing the ongoing NECO examinations.
He said the Theatre Command immediately deployed strike aircraft and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms from the Air Component of OPHK to support ground troops in a search-and-rescue mission.
“The troops, with support from the air platforms providing guidance overhead, made contact with the terrorists around Daggu.
“Following the firefight, troops successfully rescued 10 abducted victims, who were unhurt and are currently receiving the necessary care and support.
“Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victim and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Goni said.
He added that the troops outmanoeuvred the fleeing terrorists during the encounter, inflicted casualties on them and captured seven motorcycles used by the insurgents, significantly disrupting their escape.
The military, however, said the operation recorded casualties on the side of security forces.
It said one soldier of Operation HADIN KAI and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) were killed during the intense exchange of fire with the terrorists.
“Their courage, selflessness and unwavering commitment exemplify the collective resolve of security forces and local volunteers who continue to risk their lives daily to protect innocent citizens and restore peace across the North-East,” the statement said.
The military said troops had intensified operations in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to track down the fleeing terrorists.
It added that security had been reinforced in the affected area to protect vulnerable communities, safeguard schools and prevent similar attacks.
Operation HADIN KAI described the attack as a sign of desperation by terrorist groups facing sustained military pressure, noting that attacks on soft targets would not weaken the resolve of the armed forces.
The military urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies while disregarding unverified reports and misinformation relating to the incident.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians, securing educational institutions and restoring lasting peace across the North-East.
