The Nigerian Army has rescued 386 civilians from the Sambisa Forest, where they had been held captive by terrorists for the past decade.
This significant operation was announced by Brigadier General AGL Haruna, the acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 7 Division, during a briefing with journalists on the outskirts of the Sambisa Forest in the Konduga Local Government Area, on Sunday.
The rescue was part of a broader military campaign named “Operation Desert Sanity 111,” which aimed to clear the forest of remaining terrorist elements and provide a safe passage for those among the terrorists who were willing to surrender.
Brigadier General Haruna emphasized the dual purpose of the operation, to eliminate the terrorist threat in the region and to encourage surrenders from those who were ready to lay down their arms.
“Our goal is to ensure that we eliminate the remnants of terrorists in the Sambisa Forest and provide an opportunity for those willing to surrender,” Haruna stated.
“With this operation, we expect many will surrender, as we have already seen some beginning to do so.”
He further reported on the success of the operation, highlighting that 386 civilians had been rescued as of the previous day, with expectations that the number would continue to rise.
Haruna praised the troops for their outstanding performance and professionalism during the 10-day mission, relaying commendations from the Chief of Army Staff and urging them to maintain their efforts.
Among those rescued, some spoke to the media about their harrowing experience, revealing that they had been in captivity for ten years.
Their release marks a significant achievement for the military and a hopeful new beginning for the freed captives.
