The Joint Task Force (JTF) of Operation Hadin Kai in northeastern Nigeria successfully rescued 74 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from a suspected kidnapping attempt by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents.
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Security analyst Zagazola Makama revealed on Thursday that the corps members were rescued along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Borno State. According to military sources, 36 men and 38 women were freed around 9:05 p.m. on Tuesday after their vehicles broke down near an area known for abductions.
The rescue was initiated when a closed-circuit surveillance system monitored by troops detected unusual activity involving three buses at the location. Soldiers were quickly dispatched, found the stranded corps members, and evacuated them to safety, averting a potential attack by insurgents in the area.
The NYSC members had initially been escorted from Maiduguri to Damaturu by troops from the 7 Division Garrison. After reaching Damaturu, they reportedly continued their journey toward Hawul Local Government Area without notifying Sector 2 Headquarters or obtaining a new armed escort.
Reports indicate the group was on an evangelical mission to Hawul when the incident occurred. The rescued corps members are now being accommodated at the Buratai military base while arrangements are made for their safe onward travel.
