Troops of Operation HADIN KAI rescued 10 National Examinations Council, NECO, candidates and teachers who were abducted in Lassa, Askira Uba Local Government Area, Borno State, from the captivity of ISWAP terrorists. ISWAP terrorists attacked Technical Secondary School while students were writing NECO exams at about 9:00 a.m. The Theatre Command responded immediately, deployed strike aircraft and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platforms from the Air Component to guide ground troops to the area.

The joint air and ground operations made contact with the terrorists around Daggu. After a firefight, soldiers overpowered the group, disrupted their escape, and recovered seven motorcycles, rescued 10 of the abducted victims, who were found unhurt; they are now receiving care and support. Security forces are still searching for one remaining victim and working to bring those responsible to justice.

The operation came at a cost. One soldier of Operation HADIN KAI and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force died in the exchange of fire. Military officials said their courage and selflessness reflected the daily risks taken by troops and local volunteers who protect communities and work to restore peace across the North East.