Nigerian Military Rescues 363 Victims, Kills 69 Terrorists

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced that in the past week, Nigerian military operations resulted in the neutralization of 69 terrorists and the rescue of 363 kidnapped victims. These operations involved land, air, and sea offensives across various theatres.

Notably, on July 31, 2026, troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno State thwarted an abduction attempt, rescuing 31 individuals. Additional rescues included two women and two children on August 1, 2026, who had been held since the 2023 farming season.

Between August 2-4, 2026, several family members of suspected terrorists surrendered, and logistics suppliers were arrested with provisions intended for terrorists. The operations also led to the discovery and dismantling of three illegal refinery sites, recovery of 251,600 litres of stolen crude, and destruction of 12 storage pits.

General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, praised the troops for their discipline and commitment, despite the loss of one soldier in action.