In a coordinated assault that broke the grip of one of Boko Haram's most formidable redoubts, Nigerian forces have liberated at least 400 captives from a mountain fortress in the Sambisa Forest. The operation, which began at dawn on Monday, involved a combined contingent of army, air force, and local vigilante groups. Military sources report that the militants offered little resistance, many melting away into the dense bush as ground troops advanced.
The freed hostages, predominantly women and children, were found in makeshift shelters and underground pits. Many showed signs of severe malnutrition and psychological trauma. A military spokesman described the fortress as a key logistics hub for the jihadist group, used for holding high-value prisoners and coordinating attacks across the northeast.
The operation is a significant setback for Boko Haram, which has suffered a series of territorial losses in recent months. However, analysts caution that the group remains capable of asymmetric attacks. The freed hostages are being taken to a rehabilitation centre in Maiduguri for medical and psychosocial support.
