A military rescue operation in northeastern Borno State has freed 10 students and teachers who were kidnapped during an armed assault on a secondary school examination centre, authorities said Monday, as troops continue hunting for one person still unaccounted for.
Suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on Monday stormed the Technical Secondary School in Lassa Community, Askira Uba Local Government Area, around 9:00 a.m. while candidates sat for their National Examinations Council (NECO) papers, according to the Joint Task Force North East.
Security forces responded swiftly, deploying ground troops alongside fighter jets and surveillance aircraft from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI to track the attackers, the military said in a statement.
Troops intercepted the fleeing gunmen near Daggu, triggering a fierce gun battle that enabled the rescue of 10 abducted individuals.
All rescued victims escaped without injury and are currently receiving medical and psychological support, according to Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer for the task force.
During the confrontation, soldiers outflanked the terrorists, inflicting significant casualties and seizing seven motorcycles used by the assailants to escape, Goni added.
But the operation came at a cost. One soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force, a local volunteer group supporting military efforts, were killed in the crossfire.
“Their courage, selflessness and unwavering commitment exemplify the collective resolve of security forces and local volunteers who continue to risk their lives daily to protect innocent citizens and restore peace across the North East,” Goni said.
The military has since reinforced security across the affected area, deploying additional personnel to protect schools and vulnerable communities from further attacks.
Officials described the assault as a desperate act by terrorist groups facing sustained military pressure, forcing them to target softer civilian targets in a bid to remain relevant.
“Such cowardly acts will neither deter OPHK’s resolve nor diminish its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace and security across the North East,” Goni said.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and ensuring a safe environment for education and other essential services, the military said.
Authorities appealed to residents to remain alert and share credible intelligence with security agencies, while cautioning the public against spreading or relying on unverified information about the incident.
“Ongoing operations may necessitate further verified updates,” Goni said, urging the public to follow only official channels for accurate information.
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