Military Rescues 47 ISWAP Captives in Borno State

On June 20, 2026, the military conducted a successful operation in Borno State, rescuing 47 captives, mostly women and children, from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Kangarwa area of Kukawa Local Government. The operation was disclosed in a statement issued by the Joint Task Force North East, led by Major General Mohammed Goni.

The rescue was made possible through intensified ground and air assaults on terrorist strongholds, which forced ISWAP fighters to abandon their positions. The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical attention and humanitarian support at a secure location.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and dismantling terrorist networks in the region, emphasizing ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace in northeastern Nigeria, which has faced significant insurgency challenges over the past decade.