The Nigerian Army has arrested five suspected bandits and kidnappers accused of perpetrating kidnap and other terrorism activities in Borno, Zamfara and Kaduna states.
Officers of the military arm, during intelligence-led operations at separate incidents nabbed the individuals and also rescued some abductees and also recovered several weapons and eight motorcycles used by the criminals gang in perpetrating the unlawful act.
A statement by the army on Monday state that the enforcement which happened in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, as well as several locations across Kaduna and Zamfara states between June 18 and June 21, 2026, led to it’s officers successfully rescuing two women and a one-year-old child, an act which formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks, disrupt terrorist activities and enhance security across affected communities, as relayed by the army.
It added that the victims were found abandoned by fleeing criminals as troops advanced on their location after which they were immediately evacuated for medical attention, while preliminary investigations indicated they had been held in captivity for several weeks before being moved to another terrorist hideout.
In another operation, troops foiled a planned terrorist attack after acting on credible intelligence by laying an ambush on the attackers, forcing them to retreat under heavy gunfire before they could execute their mission.
The military statement said follow-up operations led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and assorted food supplies believed to have been used to support terrorist activities.
Furthermore, troops working alongside intelligence operatives arrested four suspected violent extremists and informants during a covert operation.
Several incriminating items were recovered, while the suspects were taken into custody for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Also, troops apprehended another suspect identified as Muhammad Mamman after inconsistencies in his statements raised suspicion about his activities and identity.
Military investigators are currently questioning him as part of ongoing efforts to uncover terrorist networks.
Separately, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working with members of the Hybrid Force, arrested two kidnappers during an intelligence-driven operation. One AK-47 rifle and a magazine were recovered from the suspects.
“The suspects and the recovered arms have been forwarded to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and necessary action,” a military statement disclosed.
The arrest of the two suspects followed actionable intelligence on the activities of a kidnapping syndicate believed to be operating within local communities.
Troops provided security support during the mission, enabling operatives to track and apprehend the suspects successfully.
The Military statement further revealed that troops repelled another terrorist attack during an encounter with armed criminals.
Although the attackers suffered significant casualties and retreated, three soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty.
In a related operation, troops acted swiftly on intelligence regarding the movement of armed terrorists on motorcycles toward vulnerable communities.
The aggressive patrol forced the suspects to abandon their mission and withdraw before any attack could be carried out.
Commending the troops, military commanders praised their bravery, resilience and professionalism, while assuring residents that offensive operations against terrorists, bandits and kidnappers would continue.
“We remain committed to denying criminal elements freedom of action and restoring lasting peace and security across affected communities,” the military said, while also urging citizens to continue providing timely information to security agencies.