Nigerian troops rescue 40 hostages in Borno being transported by Boko Haram terrorists

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) have rescued 40 people who have been held hostage by Boko Haram terrorists in Borno.

A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel, Olaniyi Osoba, Chief Military Information Officer, HQ MNJTF N’djamena, Chad on Tuesday, stated that in the Kukawa Local Government Area and Baga axis, the MNJTF intercepted a group of Boko Haram terrorists transporting a large number of hostages.

The terrorists fled, abandoning the hostages, who were swiftly rescued. The rescued victims comprised eight men, eight women, and 24 children.

“Preliminary investigation suggests that the hostages were being transported from a Boko Haram enclave in Dogon Chikwu,” which has become increasingly difficult for the terrorists to maintain due to intense MNJTF pressure.

The troops are actively pursuing the fleeing terrorists, who are believed to be holding additional hostages, the statement reads.

In a separate operation, MNJTF forces also reportedly intercepted a Boko Haram logistics syndicate in the Gubio general area. The syndicate was reportedly using three vehicles to transport supplies to terrorist enclaves.

The apprehended suspects, Mustapha Muhamadu, Abdullahi Muhammed, and Usman Bintumi, were found with a large quantity of food, clothing, medical supplies, and other essential goods.

These successful operations underscore the MNJTF’s commitment to combating terrorism and protecting civilians in the Lake Chad region. The MNJTF’s intelligence-led approach continues to yield significant victories against Boko Haram.

The statement reads, “The terrorists fled upon encountering the troops, leaving behind the hostages, who were promptly rescued. Among the rescued persons include 8 men, 8 women, and 24 children.

“Preliminary investigation suggests that the hostages were being transported from a Boko Haram enclave in Dogon Chikwu, which has become increasingly untenable due to intense MNJTF operational activity pressure. The troops are currently pursuing the fleeing terrorists, who may be holding additional hostages.

“In a separate operation, MNJTF forces intercepted a Boko Haram logistics syndicate operating in the Gubio general area. The syndicate was using three vehicles to transport various supplies to terrorist enclaves.

“The apprehended suspects, identified as Mustapha Muhamadu, Abdullahi Muhammed, and Usman Bintumi, were found in possession of a significant quantity of food items, clothing, medical supplies, and other essential goods.

“The successful operations conducted by the MNJTF demonstrate the ongoing commitment of the regional forces to combat terrorism and protect innocent civilians in the Lake Chad region.

“These victories are a testament to the effectiveness of the MNJTF’s intelligence-led approach and the cooperation between the military and Civilian Joint Task Forces.”