The Nigerian military says it has foiled an attempted mass abduction by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters targeting female students in Monguno, Borno State, in northeastern Nigeria.

Operation Hadin Kai said in a statement that the attack occurred at about 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, targeting the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), which is currently being used by the Borno State Government as temporary accommodation for students of the Federal Polytechnic, Monguno.

According to the military, the attackers gained access to the compound with the assistance of suspected collaborators before troops, supported by Mobile Police personnel and a Quick Reaction Force, engaged them and forced them to retreat without carrying out the abduction.

The military said all 46 students were safely evacuated to Kinnasara Barracks in Monguno, where they underwent medical examinations, adding that no student was abducted.

The statement said several students were fatally struck by gunfire during the exchange of fire with the attackers but did not specify the number of casualties.

The military said investigations are underway to identify suspected collaborators, while security forces continue to pursue the fleeing attackers.

Operation Hadin Kai reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on armed groups and protecting schools and other critical infrastructure across northeastern Nigeria.