More than 300 captives freed in Nigerian military rescue operation
More than 300 people kidnapped from their communities in February have been rescued by the Nigerian military after weeks of operation. Many of them are
More than 300 people kidnapped from their communities in February have been rescued by the Nigerian military after weeks of operation. Many of them are in terrible conditions, having spent more than six months in captivity. This is the first time they are breathing the air of freedom.
When gunmen attacked their community, they killed more than 150 people, burned down the entire village, and destroyed their means of livelihood. Many of the rescued will be returning to almost nothing, finding their homes, farms, and businesses completely destroyed.
Among the rescued are tired and sick children, women, and men. They are currently being housed in a hotel—their first decent accommodation in six months—before being moved to a medical facility for health review. The military coordinated the formal handover of the released captives to civilian authorities in Kwara State.
Al Jazeera's Ahmed Idris reports from Ilorin, central Nigeria. Find us on Check our website Check out our Instagram page Download AJE Mobile App
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