Armed forces record nationwide gains, rescue 179 kidnap victims, neutralise terrorists across theatres
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres of operation between May 25 and 28, 2026, including the rescue of 179 kidnapped victims, the neutralisation of at least 15 terrorists, and the arrest of several high-profile suspects linkedin to terrorism, kidnapping, and organised crime.
The Defence Headquarters said the coordinated operations, carried out under various Joint Task Forces nationwide, reflect sustained pressure on criminal networks and the military’s continued commitment to restoring peace and security across the country.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who briefed on the operations, said the latest achievements underscore the professionalism, resilience, and determination of troops deployed across all regions.
Troops of Operation UDO KA intensified operations against proscribed separatist elements in the South-East, leading to the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN commander, Chinedu Opete, also known as “Dragon,” in Ete Eyinmagwu Village, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The raid, conducted on May 26, followed earlier intelligence-led operations targeting armed networks in the region. Another suspect, Amachi Opete, was also arrested during the operation.
Items recovered included a military belt and two berets bearing IPOB/ESN insignia.
In a related development, two suspects arrested in Owaza, Abia State, were handed over to troops for further investigation after being intercepted while allegedly attempting to steal farm produce and abduct female farmers. Although they claimed involvement in illegal bunkering, investigators say their accounts remain inconsistent.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained offensive operations across Taraba, Borno, and Yobe States, resulting in the neutralisation of terrorists and disruption of multiple attacks.
On May 24, troops responding to gunfire in Akate, Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State, engaged terrorists in a firefight and killed two, recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, mobile phones, and other items.
On May 25, a suspected terrorist collaborator, Alhaji Gambo, was arrested in Monguno, Borno State, during a routine security check.
Sustained military pressure also continued to trigger defections and rescues. On May 27, a family member of a suspected terrorist escaped from the Kimbe enclave in the Mandara Mountains, citing harsh conditions and surrendered to troops. The same day, four abducted civilians from Ngoshe community were handed over to Nigerian troops in Gwoza following their rescue by Cameroonian forces.
Also on May 27, troops intercepted a concentration of terrorists along the Bam–Buratai axis in Biu LGA. Following engagement and a Quick Reaction Force sweep, five terrorists were confirmed neutralised with 169 rounds of ammunition recovered.
In Yobe State on May 28, troops in conjunction with local hunters ambushed terrorists at Kasaicia along the Damaturu–Buni Yadi axis, killing four and recovering an AK-47 rifle.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded several breakthroughs across Kebbi, Zamfara, and Katsina States.
On May 26, a suspected terrorist was arrested in Tungan Giwa Village, Kebbi State, while attempting to board a vehicle. Digital evidence recovered from his phone allegedly linked him to members of the Lakurawa terrorist network.
On May 27, troops engaged terrorists in Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja communities in Zamfara State, killing two and destroying several camps. Weapons, motorcycles, and fabricated rifles were recovered.
In Katsina State, troops neutralised a fleeing armed suspect identified as Mallam Mau’re, believed to be linked to a known terrorist kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani. An AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle were recovered.
In a major humanitarian development, 31 kidnapped victims were rescued along the Bagega–Kawaye road in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State following coordinated military pressure and air interdiction operations in surrounding forest areas.
Under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, troops recorded a major humanitarian breakthrough with the release of 148 kidnapped victims, comprising two adult males and 146 women and children.
The victims were abducted more than three months ago from Galma Village in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State and were reportedly held in forest enclaves in Zamfara State.
They were handed over to local authorities in Bangi for documentation, medical attention, and family reunification.
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE responded swiftly to an attack in Lusuru Village, Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, forcing attackers to flee and rescuing two injured victims.
In a separate operation in Kikoba, Kauru Local Government Area, troops neutralised a notorious kidnap kingpin, Idi Yaya, after he attempted to escape during a raid on his hideout.
The Military noted that follow-up operations are ongoing to dismantle his criminal network.
Under Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops intensified anti-drug operations in Makurdi, Benue State, leading to the interception of illicit substances and arrests of suspected drug traffickers.
A follow-up raid led to the recovery of over 500 suspected illicit drug tablets, methamphetamine-like substances, cash, and communication devices from a vehicle linked to a suspect.
In another operation, two associates of a notorious drug dealer were arrested in Makurdi, with additional drugs, motorcycles, phones, and financial equipment recovered.
In Edo State, Operation DELTA SAFE troops, working with police and local hunters, conducted clearance operations across forested areas in Owan East Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of a suspect and recovery of firearms.
In a follow-up ambush along the Ohe–Uzea Road in Esan North-East, one suspected kidnapper was neutralised while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Recovered items included locally made firearms, ammunition, knives, communication devices, identity cards, and illicit drugs.
The Defence Headquarters described the week’s operations as a clear demonstration of the Armed Forces’ resolve to defeat terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime across Nigeria.
It reaffirmed the commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff and military leadership to safeguarding national sovereignty and protecting civilians.
The military also urged citizens to continue providing timely and credible intelligence, stressing that public cooperation remains vital to sustaining operational gains nationwide.
