The Nigerian army said Thursday it rescued 59 women, children, and older men who had been captured by Islamic militants.
Army officials say soldiers raided hideouts of the Boko Haram group near the northeastern city of Maiduguri.
The officials say many Boko Haram militants were killed in the rescue operation. The army also said it seized weapons and vehicles.
Boko Haram militants often raid villages and kidnap people, forcing them to become Muslim.
