In a monumental breakthrough, the Nigerian Army, through its ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ in the North-East, has executed a daring rescue mission, liberating 387 hostages from the notorious stronghold of Sambisa Forest.
Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 OPHK, hailed the operation as a triumph of strategic intelligence and unwavering determination.
Addressing troops at the Awulari River side of Konduga Local Government Area in Borno State, near Sambisa Forest, General Haruna emphasized the gravity of the rescue, stating, “The rescue operation was conducted based on highly sensitive and valuable intelligence.”
The hostages, comprising civilians, women, and children, had endured over a decade of captivity at the hands of Boko Haram insurgents.
General Haruna clarified that they were not associated with the insurgents but were forcibly detained.
In addition to the humanitarian victory, the Army’s relentless pursuit led to the recovery of weapons, emeralds, and other equipment previously seized by insurgents from security forces. The operation saw numerous Boko Haram fighters surrendering, demonstrating the diminishing hold of the extremist group.
Dubbed “Operation Desert Sanity III,” the comprehensive clearance initiative involved troops from the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, 26 Task Force Brigade (114 Battalion), and 199 Special Forces Battalion.
Over the course of ten days, the operation resulted in the recapture of key Boko Haram strongholds within Sambisa Forest, including Uqba, Sabilul Huda, Lawanti, Njimia, and Iraqi.
General Haruna underscored the operation’s enduring commitment to securing every inch of Sambisa Forest, thereby reinstating safety for farmers to access their lands and curbing criminal activities in the North-East region.
He praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and Theatre Commander Joint Task Force ‘Operation Hadin Kai,’ Major General Waidi Shuaibu, for their unwavering support in facilitating the operation’s success.
In a stirring call to arms, General Haruna urged troops to maintain their vigilance until every corner of Sambisa Forest is rendered safe for all Nigerians, signaling a decisive blow against insurgency and a beacon of hope for the nation’s security landscape.