Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued 10 National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers who were abducted during an attack on Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The rescue operation, however, claimed the lives of a soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), who were killed during a gun battle with the attackers.
The victims were writing their NECO examinations when suspected ISWAP terrorists reportedly invaded the school around 9 a.m., firing shots indiscriminately and abducting students and teachers.
Confirming the incident, the Acting Military Information Officer of Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Muhammad Goni, said troops swiftly launched a coordinated rescue mission after receiving reports of the attack.
According to him, the operation involved both ground forces and air support, with strike aircraft and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platforms deployed to assist in tracking the fleeing terrorists.
“The troops, with support from air platforms providing guidance, made contact with the fleeing terrorists around Daggu, leading to a fierce exchange of fire,” Goni said.
He disclosed that 10 of the abducted victims were rescued unharmed and are receiving medical attention, while efforts are continuing to locate those still in captivity.
The military also reported inflicting casualties on the terrorists and recovering seven motorcycles allegedly used by the attackers during the operation.
“During the contact, troops outmanoeuvred the fleeing terrorists, inflicting casualties on them and capturing seven of their motorcycles, significantly disrupting their escape,” the statement said.
“Regrettably, during the intense firefight, one gallant soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force made the supreme sacrifice.”
Goni added that security has been strengthened in the area as troops intensify efforts to apprehend the attackers and prevent similar incidents. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies while avoiding the spread of unverified reports.
