Troops rescue 376 kidnap victims, arrest 226 terror suspects in February operations

2026-02-27 - 13:57

...Military intercepts 416 fertilizer bags for IEDs, dismantles 32 illegal refineries in Niger Delta By Kingsley Omonobi The Armed Forces of Nigeria on Friday disclosed that troops neutralised scores of terrorists, rescued 376 kidnapped victims, and arrested 226 terror suspects during nationwide operations in February 2026. Military authorities also intercepted 416 bags of fertilizer intended for the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and dismantled 32 illegal refinery sites in the Niger Delta, recovering over 144,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,601 litres of Automotive Gas Oil. North-East operations According to the military, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised several terrorists, arrested 85 suspects, facilitated the surrender of more than 60 insurgents and their family members, and rescued 104 kidnapped victims. A major engagement on February 20, 2026, in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State saw troops repel a coordinated terrorist assault involving gun trucks and motorcycles. Troops also intercepted logistics supplies for Boko Haram elements, including 416 bags of fertilizer in Yobe State — a material commonly used in fabricating IEDs. Additionally, 42 suspected illegal miners were arrested in Gujba Local Government Area, disrupting illicit funding channels. Sustained offensives have continued to pressure Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), denying them safe havens and degrading operational capacity. North-West successes In the North-West, troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested 36 suspects, and rescued 251 kidnapped victims. Among them were 21 abducted persons rescued in Musawa Local Government Area of Katsina State and handed over to authorities. The interception of arms and ammunition caches disrupted terrorist logistics networks, while agricultural security patrols helped safeguard farmlands and grazing corridors, reducing farmer–herder tensions and supporting economic recovery. The recent donation of 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers to Operation Fansan Yamma by the Zamfara State Government has enhanced mobility and rapid response capabilities in the theatre. North-Central and Savannah Shield operations Following its inauguration, Operation Savannah Shield expanded operations across Kwara and Niger states. Intelligence-led offensives in Madama LGA of Niger State led to the neutralisation of terrorists, rescue of hostages, and recovery of arms. In the North-Central region, Operations Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke sustained coordinated responses to terrorism and communal violence, with troops rescuing 22 hostages, arresting suspects, and recovering weapons in multiple engagements. Dominance patrols and stakeholder engagements in Plateau State de-escalated farmer–herder clashes, while youth empowerment and conflict resolution initiatives promoted peaceful coexistence. Niger Delta crackdown In the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe intensified anti-crude oil theft operations. Troops arrested nine suspects, recovered over 144,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,601 litres of Automotive Gas Oil, and dismantled 32 illegal refining sites. In Cross River State, coordinated raids with the Department of State Services led to the arrest of suspected arms fabricators and the recovery of locally made firearms and ammunition. Environmental remediation and livelihood support initiatives were also strengthened to reduce dependence on illicit activities. South-East operations In the South-East, Operation Udoka intensified actions against the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Troops arrested 54 suspects, rescued kidnapped victims, and dismantled logistics camps. Armed engagements resulted in the neutralisation of several fighters and disruption of criminal networks, while medical outreach and community engagement initiatives contributed to a reduction in violent incidents and improved public confidence. Commitment to rule of law Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, reiterated that operations across all theatres adhered strictly to the Rules of Engagement and International Humanitarian Law. He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for providing actionable intelligence and urged citizens to remain security conscious and report suspicious activities through the emergency line 193. “As Lent and Ramadan commence, the Armed Forces extend best wishes to all observing the sacred seasons,” he said. “We reaffirm our resolve to consolidate gains, sustain momentum, and continue working toward a safe and secure nation where all citizens can live and thrive in peace.”