Army frees 360 people abducted by Boko Haram in Nigeria’s Borno State

The Nigerian army has rescued 360 people abducted by Boko Haram in the Mandara mountains in Borno State. The operation, which took place in a Boko Haram stronghold, freed captives held under harsh conditions. Tragically, two infants died during captivity due to exhaustion and the challenging environment. The rescued individuals were evacuated for medical care and humanitarian support. The army utilized intelligence and psychological operations to weaken the insurgent ranks before the assault. Local officials confirmed the release, with some reporting over 400 individuals freed. Boko Haram had reportedly demanded millions of Nigerian naira in ransom.

The Nigerian army announced Sunday that it rescued 360 people abducted by Boko Haram in southern Borno state. The operation took place in the Mandara mountains, a stronghold of the militant group, and resulted in the release of individuals, including children, from various communities. Tragically, two infants died from exhaustion and hardship during their captivity. The rescued individuals were evacuated for medical care and humanitarian support. This success is a significant setback for Boko Haram amidst Nigeria's ongoing security crisis in the north, fueled by a decade-long insurgency and armed groups involved in kidnappings and illegal mining.

At least 360 people, including women and children abducted in March from an area near Cameroon, have been freed from a Boko Haram mountain hideout in Nigeria's Borno state. The Nigerian army claims an intelligence-led operation led to the captives' surprise rescue. However, a local group, the Borno South Youth Initiative, asserts it mediated the unconditional release of 416 individuals. Mass abductions for ransom have become a common tactic by armed groups in Nigeria, targeting vulnerable communities and institutions. While ransom payments are illegal, they are reportedly made by families, intermediaries, or authorities, fueling these abductions.