By Deborah Nnamdi
The Nigerian military has arrested over 70 terrorists and rescued more than 90 kidnapped victims in a series of coordinated operations across the North East, North West, and North Central regions over the past week.
In Borno State, troops of the Joint Task Force under Operation Hadin Kai apprehended 11 terrorist collaborators and informants. Recovered items included ammunition, logistics supplies, illicit drugs (including PMS), vehicles, motorcycles, and N70,050 in cash.
Troops also safely detonated several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Abadam, Gwoza, and Mobbar Local Government Areas.
According to Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, a terrorist affiliated with the Abu Ayuba syndicate surrendered in Kwayari village, Kaga LGA, on August 20, 2025. He turned in his weapon and ammunition and expressed willingness to assist in negotiations for the surrender of other members.
Under Operation Fansan Yamma, intensified airstrikes targeted terrorist enclaves at Pauwa Hill, Kankara LGA, Katsina State, resulting in multiple terrorist casualties. Troops also arrested 28 criminals and rescued 76 kidnapped victims.
Between August 21 and 25, four suspected terrorists were arrested in Kontagora (Niger State) and Matazu (Katsina State), with arms, ammunition, a motorcycle, and N321,000 recovered.
Troops of Operation Safe Haven killed several terrorists, arrested 19 criminals, and rescued seven kidnapped victims in multiple LGAs of Plateau and Kaduna States. Weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and motorcycles were seized.
Notably, 10 notorious armed robbers — including one Abdullahi Abubakar — were arrested between August 22–26 in operations across Plateau and Kaduna States. Additionally, five gunrunners and two wanted criminals, Abu Habu and Suleiman Haruna, were apprehended in Bassa and Bokkos LGAs, with weapons, communications devices, and N89,400 recovered.
Under Operation Whirl Stroke, also in the North Central zone, troops neutralized several extremists and kidnappers, arrested 13 suspects, rescued 29 victims, and recovered arms, motorcycles, and mobile phones.
Maj.-Gen. Kangye emphasized that these successes underscore the military’s sustained efforts to combat terrorism and restore peace across affected regions.
