Photo: Rescued NECO candidates and teachers in Lassa, Borno State, after Operation HADIN KAI troops repelled ISWAP attackers on June 29, 2026
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, OPHK, have rescued 10 National Examinations Council, NECO, candidates and teachers abducted during an ISWAP attack on Technical Secondary School, Lassa, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
A statement from Capt. Mohammed Goni ,Acting Military Information Officer Headquarters Joint Task Force North East revealed that the attack occurred at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, while students were writing exams. On receipt of the report, Theatre Command deployed strike and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, ISR, aircraft from the Air Component of OPHK to support ground troops in a coordinated search and rescue operation.
With air platforms providing guidance, troops made contact with terrorists around Daggu. After a firefight, 10 victims were rescued unhurt and are receiving care, while operations continue to free the remaining victim and apprehend the attackers. Troops also killed and wounded several terrorists, captured seven motorcycles, and disrupted their escape route. “Regrettably, one gallant soldier of OPHK and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force made the supreme sacrifice,” the statement said, noting their courage exemplifies the resolve of security forces protecting civilians in the North East.
OPHK said the attack underscores the desperation of terrorist groups now targeting soft targets after sustained military pressure. In collaboration with other agencies, troops have intensified operations, reinforced security around schools and vulnerable communities, and are sustaining pressure on the perpetrators. “Such cowardly acts will neither deter OPHK’s resolve nor diminish its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace,” the command stated.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its mandate to protect civilians, secure schools, and enable essential services to thrive. It urged the public to remain vigilant, share credible information with security agencies, and rely only on official updates as operations progress.
