Military reports rescue operation

A senator and youth leader said about 416 women and children were freed over the weekend, while the Nigerian military separately reported an “intelligence-led rescue operation” that secured the release of around 360 hostages, many of whom had been held in harsh conditions.

“Boko Haram” insurgency and ongoing kidnapping crisis

The victims were reportedly taken from multiple communities near the Cameroon border, an area long affected by “Boko Haram” activity. Authorities said two infants died during captivity, while officials noted the insurgents had demanded ransom. Kidnapping remains a widespread issue in Nigeria amid a 17-year insurgency that has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions.