Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, OPHK, have rescued 10 abducted NECO candidates and teachers following an ISWAP attack on Lassa Community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Borno State.

The terrorists hit Technical Secondary School in Lassa at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday while students were writing NECO exams. They abducted several candidates and teachers before fleeing into the bush.

On receiving the distress call, OPHK’s Theatre Command launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation. The Air Component deployed strike aircraft and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, ISR, platforms to support ground troops tracking the attackers.

Using real-time aerial surveillance, troops intercepted the terrorists around the Daggu axis. A gun battle followed, with troops overpowering the insurgents and forcing them to abandon some captives.

Ten victims, made up of students and teachers, were recovered unharmed and are now receiving medical care and psychosocial support. Seven motorcycles belonging to the terrorists were also seized, limiting their mobility.

One soldier of Operation HADIN KAI and a Civilian Joint Task Force, CJTF, member died during the exchange.

Military sources said troops are still combing the area and blocking escape routes to rescue the remaining abducted person and apprehend those behind the attack. Security has also been increased in schools and vulnerable communities to prevent further raids.

The sources added that the attack shows how terror groups are targeting soft civilian locations like schools as military pressure intensifies across the North-East.

Source: X Nigeria Army, Zagazola Makama