The Nigerian Army has rescued at least 386 individuals, predominantly women and children, from Sambisa Forest, a decade after their abduction.
This was disclosed by Brigadier General AGL Haruna, the acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 7 Division, during a press briefing at the outskirts of Sambisa Forest in Konduga Local Government Area.
The rescue operation, named “Operation Desert Sanity 111,” aimed to eliminate the remnants of terrorist groups in the Sambisa Forest and provide an opportunity for those willing to surrender. Brigadier General Haruna noted the operation’s success in encouraging surrenders and rescuing civilians.
“Our effort is to ensure that we clear the remnants of terrorists in Sambisa and give those willing to surrender the opportunity to do so. With this operation, we envisage many of them will surrender as they have started. As of yesterday, we rescued 386, and I am sure the number will increase by today,” Haruna stated.
Haruna also conveyed the Chief of Army Staff’s commendations to the troops for their exemplary performance and professionalism throughout the 10-day operation, urging them to maintain their efforts.
Some of the rescued individuals recounted their harrowing experiences of being in captivity for the past 10 years. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the operation involved troops from the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, 26 Task Force Brigade, and 199 Special Forces.
