Troops Across Nigeria Free Kidnap Victims, Destroy Insurgent Networks

Nigeria's Armed Forces (AFN) have maintained a relentless offensive throughout various operational zones, successfully liberating citizens from abduction, dismantling terrorist supply chains, disrupting criminal enterprises, and significantly weakening the operational capacity of insurgent groups. This update was provided by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, during a recent press briefing in Abuja. He detailed military activities conducted between July 3 and 9, 2026, emphasizing the troops' unwavering commitment to restoring peace, safeguarding lives, and protecting crucial national economic infrastructure.

In the North-east, forces deployed under Operation Hadin Kai achieved significant victories against terrorist organizations. Through offensive maneuvers and search-and-rescue missions spanning Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states, six farmers who were abducted from Mussa in Borno State's Askira Uba Local Government Area (LGA) were successfully rescued. Additionally, military operations led to the destruction of terrorist logistics and support infrastructure in Wulgo, Hausari, Danbaure, and Jegarawaji areas of Ngala LGA. Major General Onoja further revealed the apprehension of suspected terrorist informants and logistics suppliers, including an individual in Monguno, Borno State, accused of assisting terrorists in identifying wealthy individuals for kidnapping. Troops also recovered ransom money, various weapons, and other supplies from these criminal elements, with numerous suspected terrorists and their collaborators arrested across the region.

Moving to the North-west, Operation Fansan Yamma troops intensified their patrols and tactical operations across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara States. These efforts resulted in the recovery of arms and ammunition, retrieval of stolen livestock, and a significant disruption of terrorist activities. The Defence spokesman noted that individuals suspected of supplying materials for the production of improvised explosive devices were intercepted, while targeted raids effectively dismantled terrorist logistics networks.

In the North-central region, troops from Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace, and Whirl Stroke executed successful counter-terrorism, anti-kidnapping, and anti-criminality operations throughout Niger, Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Taraba States. These interventions led to the arrest of suspected criminals, the recovery of weaponry, the rescue of kidnapped individuals, and the disruption of various criminal hideouts.

Operations Delta Safe and Udo Ka in the South-South and South-east zones recorded notable successes against sea pirates, kidnappers, economic saboteurs, and other criminal elements. Major General Onoja confirmed the dismantling of illegal refining sites in Rivers and Abia States, the recovery of stolen crude oil and refined products, and the disruption of activities that threaten the nation's economic assets.

The Air Component of the Armed Forces played a crucial supporting role, conducting precise air operations and armed reconnaissance missions that significantly aided ground troops and facilitated the rescue of kidnapped victims. General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff, extended his commendation to the troops for their bravery, professionalism, and sacrifices in the ongoing nationwide operations. The Defence Headquarters appealed to communities and media organizations to continue providing timely and credible information to support military operations and enhance national security.