Borno: Troops Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have successfully rescued 74 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from a potential abduction by terrorists along the Buratai-Kamuya road in Borno. The rescue operation was confirmed in a statement by Media Information Officer, OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the rescued group comprised 36 males and 38 females. They were traveling in three buses when the vehicles encountered mechanical issues, breaking down near a known kidnapping hotspot at approximately 9:05 p.m. on Tuesday. Military troops were dispatched to the location following detection of suspicious activity by a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system monitored by the military.
Upon the troops’ arrival, it was discovered that the passengers were NYSC members stranded due to vehicle malfunctions. The troops acted swiftly to secure the area, effectively preventing what could have been a kidnapping attempt by Boko Haram or ISWAP terrorists.
The rescued individuals were transported to the Buratai military base for safety. They will remain there until arrangements are made for their continued journey to their intended destinations. The Theatre Commander of OPHK, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, praised the troops for their alertness and rapid response, which helped avert a potential tragedy.
Maj.-Gen. Abubakar emphasized the Nigerian military’s dedication to safeguarding citizens and maintaining security throughout the North East region.