Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued 10 NECO candidates and teachers abducted during an attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on Lassa community in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, the attackers stormed the Technical Secondary School at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday while students were sitting for examinations.
He said troops, supported by air assets under the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, immediately launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation after receiving the distress report.
Goni explained that the terrorists were tracked to the Daggu area, where troops engaged them in a gun battle, leading to the rescue of the abducted victims.
The rescued students and teachers were said to be unharmed and are receiving medical care and support, while efforts continue to rescue remaining victims and apprehend the attackers.
During the operation, troops reportedly neutralised several terrorists and recovered seven motorcycles used for escape.
However, one soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed during the exchange of fire.
The military said the operation underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and protect vulnerable communities, particularly schools, in the North-East region.
