Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigerian Army has announced the rescue of at least 11 kidnapped victims and the arrest of several suspected terrorists and criminal collaborators in a series of coordinated operations carried out across different parts of the country within the last 24 hours.
In a statement released on April 14, 2026, through its official communication channels, the Army said troops recorded what it described as “significant operational successes” across multiple theatres, adding that the missions disrupted terrorist activities, dismantled criminal networks, and strengthened ongoing counterinsurgency efforts nationwide.
According to the statement, the most notable breakthroughs occurred in the North-East, North-West, North-Central, and South-South regions, where troops engaged in intelligence-driven operations targeting insurgents, kidnappers, and illegal economic activities.
In Borno State, troops arrested a suspected logistics courier believed to be working with Islamic State West Africa Province and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad. The suspect reportedly confessed to facilitating supplies to insurgent cells operating around Gubio and Magumeri, areas that have long been affected by extremist activity.
In a related operation in Monguno, also in Borno State, soldiers apprehended two individuals suspected of collaborating with a known terrorist figure. Items recovered from them included mobile phones, wristwatches, a power bank, clothing resembling terrorist uniforms, food supplies, and cash. Authorities also took the suspect’s wife and three children into custody for further questioning as part of ongoing investigations into the extent of the network’s operations.
The Army also reported successful rescue operations in Bauchi State, where six kidnapped victims were freed during search-and-rescue missions conducted in affected communities. Officials said the operation was part of intensified efforts to locate and recover abducted persons across the region.
In Yobe State, troops intercepted a truck in Nguru allegedly transporting goods under false declaration. The vehicle, which was reportedly declared as carrying beverages, was instead found loaded with pharmaceutical products intended for unauthorized cross-border movement. The recovered items included antibiotics, syrups, injections, and medical supplies. The driver and three other occupants were taken into custody for further investigation into suspected smuggling activities.
In the North-West region, troops in Katsina State arrested a suspected drug trafficker found in possession of cannabis. Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, soldiers responding to a distress call rescued two personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency who had been abducted. One suspect was arrested during the operation, while the rescued officers were evacuated for medical attention after sustaining injuries.
Operations in Plateau State led to the recovery of 92 cattle following an attempted rustling incident. Soldiers also rescued an injured herder and arrested two suspects found in possession of a firearm, ammunition, mobile phones, and cash. The Army said the swift response prevented further escalation of violence in the area.
In the Federal Capital Territory, troops carried out raids on an illegal mining site, where equipment used for mineral extraction was confiscated. The items recovered included pumping machines, shovels, and digging tools. Officials said the operation was aimed at curbing illegal resource exploitation and associated criminal activity in the region.
In Rivers State, security forces discovered and dismantled illegal oil refining facilities, recovering thousands of litres of stolen crude oil and refined products. The Army noted that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta.
Similarly, in Edo State, troops working alongside other security agencies arrested a suspected kidnapper during a coordinated operation. The Army described the arrest as part of enhanced inter-agency collaboration driven by intelligence-sharing and joint tactical responses to criminal threats.
Across all theatres of operation, the Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to maintaining national security and protecting civilians. It stated that the recent successes reflect improved coordination, intelligence-led operations, and sustained pressure on criminal elements across the country.
The Army also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains essential to the success of ongoing counterterrorism and anti-crime operations.
Security analysts say the scale and geographical spread of the operations highlight the military’s continued focus on multi-front security challenges, particularly in regions affected by insurgency, kidnapping, banditry, and economic sabotage. However, they also note that sustained progress will depend on long-term intelligence capacity, community trust, and inter-agency coordination.
For now, the Army maintains that it remains firmly committed to restoring peace and stability across all affected regions, while intensifying efforts to disrupt criminal networks and ensure the safety of citizens.
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