Amnesty International

Girls endured abduction, sexual slavery and other crimes by Boko Haram

The army troops under Operation Hadin Kai have rescued 12 girls abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP militants in Mussa District, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Borno State. The 13 girls, aged between 15 and 20, were kidnapped on 23 November while working on their farmlands. One of them later escaped and returned home safely, leaving 12 in captivity.

The army conducted a targeted operation in the southern Borno axis and rescued the remaining victims, following actionable intelligence. The girls were taken to a military facility for medical care, psychological support, and debriefing. The army said the victims will be reunited with their families after all necessary procedures are completed.

The army commended both the troops and community members for their role in the operation, saying the rescue demonstrated ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist threats in the North-east. The rescue followed a series of similar recoveries in Kebbi, Niger and Kwara after President Bola Tinubu ordered security agencies to intensify action against renewed insurgent attacks.