Troops Rescue 32 Kidnap Victims, Neutralize Terrorists

On May 14, 2026, troops from the Nigerian Army conducted an operation in Dikawa village, Matazu Local Government Area, Katsina State, where they neutralized two terrorists and successfully rescued 32 kidnap victims, comprising nine men, ten women, and thirteen children, along with 26 livestock. This operation was part of a broader offensive that included the arrest of a suspect in Kaduna State, who was found with incriminating photographs and weapons.

Additionally, on May 3, 2026, troops intercepted illegal ammunition movement in Abuja, apprehending suspects and recovering 250 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. The operations also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle during a kidnap intervention in Doma Local Government Area, Nasarawa State.

Maj Gen Micheal Onoja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, reported these significant humanitarian outcomes and the dismantling of illegal arms manufacturing sites in Plateau State, resulting in the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of various firearms and equipment.