Hundreds of captives freed from Boko Haram mountain hideout

AI Summary

Nigerian security forces freed approximately 360 to 400 women, children, and men from a mountain enclave controlled by Boko Haram in Borno state in northeastern Nigeria during an intelligence-led operation over the weekend. The exact circumstances of the release remained unclear—the military credited a successful rescue operation while local sources reported the jihadist group itself released the captives—and authorities denied any ransom was paid. Two children reportedly died in captivity; the operation represents a significant recovery of hostages from the group that has conducted a 17-year insurgency characterized by mass abductions.