In a significant victory against insurgency, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully rescued 75 civilians from the clutches of Boko Haram in the notorious Sambisa Forest, Borno State. Hobnob News reports on the latest operation, which brings renewed hope to a region long plagued by conflict.
The rescued individuals, comprising seven adult males, 34 women, and 34 children, were presented to the Borno State government in Maiduguri on Monday. Major General W. Shaibu, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, represented by Deputy Theater Commander, Brigadier General A.L. Akpodu, detailed the successful clearance operation.
“As part of our ongoing clearance efforts, troops of the 21 Special Armored Brigade and the 199 Special Forces Battalion recently carried out successful offensive operations in Sambisa Forest,” Brigadier General Akpodu explained. “Key terrorist enclaves in Ukuba, Ujimla, Sabil Huda, Garin, Fajula, and Gobara were cleared, leading to the rescue of 75 civilians, including seven adult males, 34 women, and 34 children.”
The operation, codenamed Operation Desert Sanity IV, not only resulted in the rescue of civilians but also dealt a significant blow to the insurgents. Military forces destroyed numerous insurgent facilities, including command and logistics bases, makeshift shelters, weapon caches, and improvised explosive device (IED)-making materials.
“The operation significantly degraded enemy capabilities by neutralising insurgents and destroying command and logistics bases, makeshift shelters, weapon caches, and IED-making materials,” Brigadier General Akpodu emphasized.
The rescued civilians have undergone essential medical and psychological evaluations and are now prepared for reintegration into society. The Borno State government, through the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Zuwaira Gambo, expressed gratitude to the military for their bravery and commitment.
“We are taking them to our rehabilitation centre, where they will receive livelihood support, counseling services, mental health and psychosocial support, and educational services for the children,” Commissioner Gambo stated. “We will ensure they are well reintegrated before releasing them back into society.”
This successful rescue operation underscores the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian military to dismantle Boko Haram’s strongholds and liberate civilians held captive. It also highlights the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programs for those affected by the conflict. Hobnob News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the progress of these efforts.
