Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), backed by operatives of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (MOPOL), have foiled an attempted mass abduction of students by suspected ISWAP terrorists at the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), Monguno, Borno State, rescuing 46 students.
The school is currently serving as a temporary hostel for students of the Federal Polytechnic, Monguno.
In a statement issued on Sunday, July 19, 2026 and made available to The News Chronicle, the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the terrorists launched the attack at about 1:30 a.m. after allegedly gaining access to the facility with the help of suspected collaborators.
He said security personnel on guard immediately engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, while the Sector 3 Quick Reaction Force (QRF) swiftly deployed to reinforce the position.
The coordinated response overwhelmed the terrorists, forcing them to abandon the operation and flee without abducting any of the students.
Following the successful operation, all 46 students were rescued and evacuated to Kinnasara Barracks in Monguno, where they received medical attention and were confirmed to be in stable condition.
However, the military disclosed that some students were fatally struck by sporadic gunfire fired by the terrorists during the exchange of fire.
As of press time, further details on the casualties were not immediately provided.
