Nigeria claims rescue of nearly 300 women and girls from Boko Haram stronghold

Nigeria's military on Tuesday claimed the rescue of 200 girls and 93 women from a notorious Boko Haram stronghold, but said there was no confirmation the hostages were those kidnapped from Chibok a year ago.

"Troops have this afternoon captured & destroyed 3 camps of terrorists inside the Sambisa forest & rescued 200 girls & 93 women," defence spokesman Chris Olukolade said in a text message, referring to the area in northeast Borno state where the Islamist have bases.

"It is not yet confirmed if the girls are the Chibok girls. The freed persons are now being screened & profiled," he added.