News

Troops rescue 11 kidnap victims, arrest 21 terrorist suspects

Published

1 month ago

July 24, 2026

Faith Okoye

Facebook X

Nigerian security forces have rescued 11 kidnapped individuals and apprehended 21 suspected terrorists, collaborators, logistics suppliers, and drug peddlers in a series of coordinated operations across Borno, Zamfara, and Kogi states, according to official reports released Thursday.

The operations, conducted under the umbrellas of Operation HADIN KAI, Operation Fansan Yamma, and Operation MESA, took place between July 21 and July 22. Military reports highlight not only the rescues and arrests but also the neutralisation of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) targeting both security personnel and civilians.

In Borno state,troops under Operation HADIN KAI arrested three suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers near the New Abbaram Resettlement Village in Bama local government area. Recovered materials included food staples and flavourings reportedly intended for terrorist use. Additionally, two teenage girls who had escaped the Grazah terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains surrendered to troops in Gwoza.

Combat engineers successfully detonated two primed IEDs discovered along the Dambua-Bulabulin-Kumala road. A third booby-trap device was encountered on the Cross Kauwa-Kekeno-Monguno Road, fragments have been secured for forensic analysis.

Also, during raids on criminal hideouts in Monguno, troops arrested 12 suspected drug peddlers, seizing quantities of cannabis, tramadol, and other illicit substances.

Troopsunder Operation Fansan Yamma, similarly engaged terrorists along the Gambada-Gummi-Sokoto road. The engagement forced the insurgents to retreat, abandoning 11 kidnapped victims and a motorcycle.

In Kogi state, security forces apprehended a suspected informant linked to the notorious terrorist kingpin Kachallah Babangida. Three additional suspects were detained in the Adavi and Lokoja local government areas. Troops also intercepted two logistics couriers transporting food, beverages, and cigarettes, reportedly destined for terrorist cells operating within the state.

Military authorities confirmed that search-and-rescue operations are currently underway in Owo, Ondo state, following the abduction of two individuals. Troops in that sector also recovered a bicycle and bags of charcoal left behind by a fleeing logistics supplier. (NAN)

Related Topics:

Faith Okoye

is an emerging journalism talent at NOP News Nigeria, bringing fresh energy and dedication to the media landscape. Inspired by global icons Christiane Amanpour and Richard Quest, she combines rigorous reporting with a commitment to journalistic excellence.