Troops rescue 10 abducted NECO candidates in Borno, intensify search for one missing
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have rescued 10 National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers abducted during an attack by suspected ISWAP terrorists on Lassa community in Askira Uba LGA of Borno state.
Terrorists on Monday morning attacked Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Askira Uba LGA while students were sitting the senior school certificate examination (SSCE).
In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, Mohammed Goni, the acting military information officer at the headquarters joint task force north-east Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, said the victims were rescued after troops, supported by air assets, launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation following the attack on the school
Goni said troops were mobilised immediately after receiving reports of the attack, adding that strike aircraft and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms from the air component of OPHK supported the ground troops during the operation.
He said the troops made contact with the terrorists around Daggu, leading to a firefight that resulted in the rescue of 10 victims, who were unharmed.
He added that efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining abducted victim and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
“During the operation, the troops reportedly inflicted casualties on the fleeing terrorists and recovered seven motorcycles used by the insurgents, disrupting their escape,” Goni said.
He, however, said one soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) were killed during the exchange of fire.
“Their courage, selflessness and unwavering commitment exemplify the collective resolve of security forces and local volunteers who continue to risk their lives daily to protect innocent citizens and restore peace across the north-east,” Goni said.
He added that troops have intensified operations in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to track down the attackers and prevent similar incidents.
He also noted that security has been reinforced around the affected community to protect schools and other vulnerable locations.
Goni described the attack as a sign of the desperation of terrorist groups facing sustained military pressure, saying such attacks would not weaken ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks across the North-East.
