Troops rescue 74 NYSC members from possible abduction in Borno
Troops from the Joint Task Force (JTF), North East Operation Hadin Kai, successfully rescued 74 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from a potential abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists along the Buratai–Kamuya road in Borno State.
The event transpired on Tuesday night when the vehicles of the corps members malfunctioned near a well-known kidnapping hotspot. The rescue operation occurred at approximately 9:05 p.m., following a prompt response from troops who were notified via a Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) system monitored by military personnel.
As per security sources, the CCTV identified suspicious activity involving three buses in the vicinity, which led to the immediate dispatch of a patrol team.
"Upon arrival, troops found 74 NYSC members — 36 males and 38 females — stranded due to mechanical issues with their vehicles. They were quickly rescued to avert a potential abduction attempt by Boko Haram or ISWAP operatives active in the region," a military source confirmed.
It was reported that the corps members had previously been escorted by troops from the 7 Division Garrison from Maiduguri to Damaturu. However, after reaching Damaturu, they allegedly proceeded to Hawul Local Government Area without informing Sector 2 Headquarters or securing an armed escort.
Further information indicated that the corps members were engaged in an evangelical mission to Hawul at the time of the incident.
The rescued NYSC members are presently being housed at the Buratai military base, where arrangements are underway for their safe onward journey.
This incident follows closely on the heels of a previous operation in which the same troops rescued 86 kidnapped individuals and apprehended 29 suspected Boko Haram associates within the same operational corridor.
