Two Boys Abducted By Boko Haram In 2019 Reunite With Families

The Borno State Police Command has confirmed that two young boys, Ayuba Ishaku and Yakubu Haruna, both aged 13, have been reunited with their families after escaping from Boko Haram captivity four years after their abduction.

According to a statement issued by the police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, the boys were among several women and children kidnapped during a raid on Mandaragrau village in Biu Local Government Area. The abduction occurred on December 29, 2019.

Daso explained that the boys made their escape on the night of July 8, 2025, seizing the opportunity when most of the insurgents had left their camp for an operation. After navigating through the forest and several communities, the boys reached the ITE Divisional Police Headquarters in Maiduguri by July 12, around 5:30 p.m.

During police questioning, the boys recounted that after their abduction, they were relocated to Mangari in the Tumbun Mota area of Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area. While in captivity, they were used as domestic workers and also received training on how to maintain weapons.

Following their arrival at the police station, officers placed the boys in protective custody, where they received care and support. On the orders of the Borno State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, efforts were initiated to trace their families.

One of the family members, Mr. Ishaku Gaji father of Ayuba, was eventually located and confirmed the boys’ abduction during the 2019 attack on their village.

The police commended the bravery of the minors and reiterated their commitment to reuniting victims of insurgency with their loved ones.