A potentially catastrophic abduction attempt was thwarted in Borno State after Nigerian troops from the Joint Task Force (JTF), North East Operation Hadin Kai, successfully intervened to save 74 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from Boko Haram or ISWAP terrorists.
The incident, which took place along the Buratai–Kamuya road, was reported on Thursday, the 13th of November, 2025, by counterinsurgency specialist Zagazola Makama in a post on X.
Makama, citing reliable sources, detailed that the rescue occurred around 9:05 p.m. on Tuesday. The corps members comprising 36 males and 38 females became stranded when their three buses suffered mechanical failure close to an area known for kidnapping activities.
The situation was brought to the attention of the military after a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system, monitored by the troops, detected the suspicious presence of the three buses. A military patrol team was immediately deployed to the site.
READ ALSO: PICTORIAL: Troops Raid Bandits Camp, Kill One, Recover Arms in Benue
Upon reaching the location, the troops discovered “74 NYSC members stranded after their vehicles developed mechanical faults.” The quick response was critical, as the report noted: “The troops immediately rescued them to prevent a likely abduction attempt by Boko Haram or ISWAP elements operating in the area.”
The corps members had been traveling to Hawul Local Government Area for what was reportedly “an evangelical mission.” While they had received an initial escort from Maiduguri to Damaturu by troops of the 7 Division Garrison, they proceeded without informing Sector 2 Headquarters or securing a fresh armed escort for the remainder of their journey.
Makama concluded by confirming the safety of the rescued individuals: “The rescued NYSC members are currently being accommodated at the Buratai military base pending further arrangements for their safe movement.”