Nigerian Military Rescues 70 Kidnapped Victims in 2026

Between October 15 and 22, 2026, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) conducted military operations that resulted in the rescue of over 70 kidnapped victims and the arrest of a wanted terrorist kingpin, as reported by Major General Michael Onoja, Director Defence Media Operations. The operations spanned across all six geopolitical zones, leading to the disruption of criminal networks.

Notably, five members of a syndicate responsible for abducting prospective corps members were apprehended in Imo State, and N10 million suspected to be ransom payment was recovered in Kano State. Key rescues included 27 villagers from Gamji community in Katsina State and 29 residents in Niger State.

The military also neutralized several terrorists and recovered arms, ammunition, and other items used by criminal networks. In Borno and Yobe States, troops of Operation HADIN KAI recovered various weapons and saw 19 terrorist fighters and their families surrender due to hardship and violent clashes.