Nigerian security forces freed 360 people kidnapped by Boko Haram in the northeastern state of Borno over the weekend, the military said on Sunday.
It said the victims were “kept in harsh conditions after being abducted from multiple communities.”
According to Haruna Sani, an army spokesperson, the two infants “died of exhaustion” due to the harsh environment and hardship endured during prolonged captivity.
“The remaining rescued hijackers were successfully evacuated to safe locations for medical care and humanitarian assistance, which is a major operational success and a significant blow to the terrorist group,” Sani said.
What else do we know about Nigeria’s rescue operation?
According to the military statement, the rescue operation was carried out in the Mandara mountains in the southern part of the state, which is part of a stronghold of Boko Haram militants.
It also said that troops had gathered intelligence and used “psychological operations” to sow “distrust within the rebel ranks” before “the beginning of the attack phase”.
The army said a joint task force including special forces drove the terrorists from their hideouts.
Insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most serious issues
Nigeria has been struggling for years to deal with security challenges.
Various armed groups, including jihadists, carry out kidnappings for ransom throughout the West African country.
According to the United Nations, the insurgency in the country’s northeast has killed thousands of people and displaced millions.
Edited by: Sam Dusan Inayatullah