Nigerian Military Neutralises Terrorists, Rescues Victims, Recovers Arms Nationwide

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded major operational successes across multiple theatres between March 13 and 19, 2026, intensifying efforts against terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and crude oil theft nationwide.

In a statement signed by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, the military said troops sustained aggressive offensives, neutralising terrorists, arresting suspects, rescuing kidnapped victims, and recovering weapons and illicit materials.

He said under Operation HADIN KAI, troops maintained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters across Borno and Yobe States. On March 13, troops repelled a terrorist attack in Banki, Bama Local Government Area (LGA), killing several insurgents and recovering weapons.

According to him further operations led to the arrest of logistics suppliers and informants in Gujba, Kaga, Yunusari, and Damasak. Troops also repelled coordinated attacks in Njimtilo, Baga, Buratai, and Damboa with air support.

He added that a major breakthrough occurred in Mallam Fatori, Abadam LGA, where troops foiled a drone-assisted attack. Follow-up operations uncovered 74 terrorist bodies, including senior commanders, alongside a large cache of arms and ammunition.

While in Taraba State, troops intercepted suspected gunrunners in Wukari LGA, recovering ammunition, cash, and motorcycles.


The DMO also said Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded significant successes across Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, and Kebbi States,  as Troops neutralised terrorists in Shinkafi LGA of Zamfara State and rescued kidnapped victims in Katsina.

While in Kaduna, troops foiled a kidnap attempt on a church leader, while security forces intercepted a female ammunition courier in Kano with 884 rounds of ammunition.

Additional arrests of terrorist collaborators and informants were made across the region, with troops repelling attacks in Kebbi and pursuing fleeing terrorists.


Ge. Onoja noted that Troops under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD disrupted terrorist logistics in Kwara State, arresting suspects linked to ISWAP and JAS.

Operation ENDURING PEACE recorded multiple rescues in Plateau and Benue States, including victims abducted along major roads. Troops also dismantled an illegal mining site in the Federal Capital Territory, arresting eight suspects.

Meanwhile, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops in Benue and Nasarawa States apprehended militia suspects, recovered weapons, and arrested a suspected gunrunner supplying arms along the Kwara–Kogi axis.

“Operation DELTA SAFE intensified operations against oil theft and criminal networks in the Niger Delta. Security forces arrested kidnapping suspects, drug traffickers, and ammunition couriers across Bayelsa, Delta, and Cross River States.

“Troops also dismantled illegal refining sites, recovering thousands of litres of stolen petroleum products. Several suspects were arrested, while others fled during raids”. He said

In the South-East, Operation UDO KA troops repelled attacks on suspected terrorist hideouts in Imo State, neutralising IED specialists and recovering explosives and equipment.
Security forces also arrested suspected cultists and recovered weapons in Ebonyi and Cross River States, while joint operations in Delta State led to the rescue of kidnapped victims.

Military Reaffirms Commitment
The Defence Headquarters said the successes highlight the professionalism and resilience of Nigerian troops, reaffirming commitment to safeguarding national security and protecting civilians.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, commended troops for their dedication and paid tribute to fallen heroes.

The military also urged continued public support, stressing that collaboration with citizens remains vital to sustaining operational gains.

As Muslims mark the end of Ramadan, the AFN extended goodwill messages to Nigerians, encouraging unity and peaceful coexistence.