Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued 10 NECO candidates and teachers abducted when the Islamic State West Africa Province attacked Lassa Community in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

According to a statement by Joint Task Force spokesman Captain Mohammed Goni, the terrorists attacked the Technical Secondary School at about 9 a.m. on June 29 while students were writing their examinations.

He said the Theatre Command deployed strike and surveillance aircraft to support troops mobilised for a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, and that with aerial guidance the troops made contact with the fleeing terrorists around Daggu, leading to a firefight that freed 10 victims.

Goni said the rescued victims were unharmed and receiving care, while efforts continued to free the remaining victim and apprehend the attackers. During the operation the troops inflicted casualties on the terrorists and captured seven motorcycles, disrupting their escape.

The military said one soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed in the exchange of fire, adding that their courage reflected the determination of security personnel and local volunteers who continue to risk their lives to protect citizens in the North East.