Woman and two children escape from terrorist captivity in Sambisa forest

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued a woman and two children who escaped from captivity in the Sambisa Forest following sustained military operations against terrorist groups in the North-East.

The escapees were received by troops of the 114 Battalion at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Izge, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, at about 2:00 p.m. on June 15, 2026.

The rescued individuals were identified as Falmatu Ibrahim, 30, Yabo Modu, 7, and Sadiq Modu, 4.

According to the sources, the trio escaped from Gazua in the Damboa axis of the Sambisa Forest and made their way to the military position in Izge.

Falmatu told security personnel during preliminary debriefing that sustained military pressure on terrorist enclaves created an opportunity for them to flee captivity.

She further revealed that she is a native of Konduga Local Government Area and was abducted by terrorists on the outskirts of Dalori about a year ago.

The rescued individuals were screened and documented by security personnel and are currently in the custody of the 26 Task Force Brigade for further administrative procedures and support.

Military authorities said the development underscores the impact of ongoing counter-insurgency operations, which continue to weaken terrorist strongholds and facilitate the escape of captives held in remote forest locations.