Soldier, CJTF Member Killed as Troops Rescue 10 NECO Candidates
A rescue mission by troops of Operation HADIN KAI has secured the freedom of 10 students and teachers kidnapped during an attack on a school in Borno State, although the operation claimed the lives of a soldier and a Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) volunteer.
The victims were abducted on Monday after suspected ISWAP terrorists stormed the Technical Secondary School in Lassa, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, where students were writing the National Examinations Council (NECO) examination.
The military said it responded swiftly after receiving reports of the attack, deploying both ground forces and air assets, including strike aircraft and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, to track the fleeing insurgents.
The pursuit led security forces to the Daggu area, where troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce exchange of gunfire. Under sustained military pressure, the insurgents fled, leaving behind some of the abducted students and teachers.
In a statement, Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, confirmed that 10 captives were rescued alive and unharmed. He said the victims are receiving medical attention and psychosocial support.
Troops also recovered seven motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists during the attack and their attempted escape.
Despite the success of the operation, one soldier attached to Operation HADIN KAI and a CJTF member were killed while confronting the insurgents.
The military paid tribute to the fallen personnel, describing their sacrifice as a reflection of the courage and commitment of security forces and local volunteers working to restore peace in the North-East.
Authorities said operations are continuing to locate the remaining abducted victim and ensure those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
The command added that security has been strengthened around schools and vulnerable communities in the area to prevent further attacks.
It also urged residents to remain vigilant, provide credible intelligence to security agencies, and ignore unverified reports surrounding the incident.
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