Troops neutralize 9 ISWAP terrorists, rescue 74 NYSC members in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded major operational successes in the ongoing counterterrorism and counterinsurgency campaign across the North East, neutralizing nine terrorists and rescuing 74 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from abduction in Borno State.
The latest achievements come in the wake of a directive by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, urging troops to intensify pressure on the remnants of terrorist groups through aggressive clearance and offensive operations across all fronts.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops of Sector 1, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), made contact with Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on 12 November 2025 at Yanaga Ari in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State. During the encounter, nine terrorists were neutralized, while five AK-47 rifles, several rounds of ammunition, and other logistics items were recovered.
In a separate operation, troops of Sector 2 successfully rescued 74 NYSC members—comprising 36 males and 38 females—who were reportedly abducted along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in Biu Local Government Area. The corps members were said to be en route to Hawul for a Christian evangelism mission when their vehicles broke down near a known kidnapping hotspot at night.
A military patrol team was swiftly deployed to the area after a CCTV system monitored by troops detected suspicious movement involving three buses at the location. The soldiers promptly intervened, leading to the rescue of all the abducted corps members.
The rescued NYSC members are currently being accommodated at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Institute, where arrangements are underway to ensure their safe movement.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry, vigilance, and swift response, urging them to remain focused and committed to restoring lasting peace in the North East. It also called on the public to continue supporting military operations with credible and timely information to help eradicate terrorism and other criminal activities in the region. (PR Nigeria)