The Nigerian army announced on June 7, 2026, that it had rescued 360 people abducted by Boko Haram earlier this year in Borno State [1, 2]. The captives included women and children who were held in harsh conditions in a Boko Haram stronghold located in the Mandara mountains [1, 2].
During captivity, two infants died from exhaustion attributed to the brutal conditions and difficult terrain [1, 2]. Some Boko Haram fighters either fled or surrendered as the military carried out the operation [1]. Boko Haram had reportedly demanded millions of Nigerian naira in ransom for the abductees [1].
There is some discrepancy over the total number of people initially abducted. While official army sources state 360 were rescued, a local youth leader and senator cited in an AFP statement claimed more than 400 people were abducted, including those who were freed [1].
The Nigerian military’s successful rescue highlights ongoing efforts to combat Boko Haram in the region. The army has not announced further details on follow-up operations or the fate of the surrendered fighters as of now [1].
