Nigerian Army troops under Operation Hadin Kai have rescued two civilians - a serving councillor and an Islamic scholar - abducted by suspected terrorists along the Buni Gari - Buratai road in Borno State, while search operations continue for five remaining hostages.

Per Zagazola Makama, the rescue followed a rapid response by soldiers from the 27 Task Force Brigade, 135 Special Forces Battalion, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). Acting on intelligence, troops launched the operation at 7:35 a.m. on Wednesday after the kidnapping of seven civilians around 5:00 p.m. Tuesday.

By 11:35 a.m., the victims were found abandoned near Mangari village as the terrorists fled upon hearing approaching forces.

The rescued individuals were identified as Alhaji Mohammed Ali Maiakachi, Councillor for Zera/Wuyep Ward in Biu LGA, and Mallam Aliyu Yusuf, Islamic scholar and Chairman of Shuaaraul Islam Borno. Pursuit operations covered 5.4 kilometres but made no direct contact with the fleeing attackers.

According to the rescued victims, five others remain in captivity, including past and current Biu LGA Vice Chairmen and three women. The freed individuals received medical care before reuniting with their families in Biu.

The incident underscores the persistent threats along remote routes in Borno despite ongoing military gains against remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents.