Scores of Terrorists Neutralised as Troops Sustain Offensive Operations Nationwide

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

Scores of terrorists were neutralised while no fewer than 56 suspects, including kidnappers, gunrunners, logistics suppliers, and illegal arms manufacturers, were arrested by the military in coordinated operations across the country between April 30 and May 7, 2026.

According to a statement signed by the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja; the operations also led to the rescue of several kidnapped victims, recovery of large caches of arms and ammunition, dismantling of illegal arms factories, and the interception of ammunition couriers across different theatres of operation nationwide.

The Defence Headquarters said troops of Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements across Adamawa, Borno, Taraba, and Yobe states. In Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, troops neutralised four terrorists during a night ambush and recovered an AK-47 rifle with ammunition.

Troops also rescued six women and children abducted from Ngoshe community in Gwoza LGA, while three repentant terrorists surrendered in Geidam LGA of Yobe State. A suspected logistics supplier was arrested in Yunusari LGA with items linked to terrorist activities, including veils, turbans, and cash.

In another operation, troops carried out a three-pronged offensive in Damboa LGA of Borno State, clearing several communities including Dusu, Multe, Hawan Burum, Abala, Kimba, and Sabon Gari. During the operation, two terrorists were neutralised while one was captured alive.

The military further disclosed that troops successfully repelled a coordinated ISWAP attack on troops’ position in Magumeri, Borno State, on May 7, Several terrorists were reportedly killed during the encounter, while weapons including PKT anti-aircraft guns and AK-47 rifles were recovered. Two soldiers, however, lost their lives during the fierce battle.

In the North West, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded successes against bandits in Katsina and Zamfara states. Operations in Kankia and Dutsinma LGAs of Katsina State led to the killing of six terrorists and recovery of weapons, motorcycles, phones, and cash.

Similarly, troops responded to an attack on Forward Operating Base Bagega in Anka LGA of Zamfara State with support from Super Tucano aircraft and surveillance platforms. Three terrorists were neutralised during the operation, while four motorcycles and an AK-47 rifle were recovered. One soldier was killed during the confrontation.

The military also reported the arrest of suspected kidnappers in Kwara, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Edo states during operations conducted under Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE, WHIRL STROKE, and DELTA SAFE.

In Plateau State, troops dismantled an illegal arms manufacturing syndicate in Jos South LGA, arresting five suspects and recovering fabricated AK-47 rifles, revolver components, and welding equipment.

Troops also rescued victims kidnapped along major highways and communities in Kogi and Edo states. In Lokoja LGA of Kogi State, security forces rescued the remaining children abducted from Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage and intercepted a suspect transporting 500 rounds of ammunition concealed in a bag of maize.

Meanwhile, troops of Operation UDO KA in the South East arrested a suspected IPOB/ESN gunrunner in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State and recovered illegal Biafran currency notes.

The Defence Headquarters stated that the operational achievements reflected the determination of the military to restore peace and security across the country. It added that the Armed Forces remained committed to protecting lives and property while sustaining operations against terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities nationwide.