Nigerian army rescues March 3 kidnap victims, arrests suspected terrorist associates in Northeast
Nigerian Army Troops Achieve Success in Ongoing Counterterrorism Operation
Nigerian Army troops, part of the Joint Task Force (North East) operating under Operation HADIN KAI, continue to achieve notable successes in their counterterrorism efforts, particularly in the ongoing Operation Desert Sanity.
In a recent operation, troops rescued six women and children abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. Acting on credible intelligence during an air interdiction mission near the Mandara Mountains, the successful rescue took place at a suspected terrorist crossing point near Amuda on May 12, 2026. The victims, identified as Aisha Musa (18), Aisha Mohammed (17), Fatima Yahaya (20), Saudatu Musa (4), Garba Mohammed (5), and Mohammed Yahaya (three months), had previously been captured during an attack on the Ngoshe community on March 3, 2026. Following their rescue, the victims received immediate medical attention at a military facility and were later reunited with their families, facilitated by the community leader, Bulama Mallam Adamu Gunda.
On the same day, troops stationed at Tango 7 in Konduga Local Government Area apprehended a suspected terrorist associate, identified as 40-year-old Hauwa Bulama, during operational engagements. Authorities recovered several items from her, including detergent, washing soap, a flashlight, and food seasoning cubes. Preliminary investigations suggest that she was on her way to Gezuwa to meet four of her children, who are suspected to be affiliated with the terrorist faction.
Additionally, acting on intelligence from ongoing investigations and communication intercepts, troops under Sector 2 arrested two more suspects, Bakura (18) and Adiza (17), in Damaturu, Yobe State. These arrests are linked to an earlier operation that involved the apprehension of a suspected ammunition courier, Ba’akaka Abubakar (alias Modogol), who was allegedly preparing to deliver ammunition to terrorists. Investigation findings indicate that Adiza was responsible for collecting ammunition from Abubakar for a terrorist commander.
All suspects are currently in custody while efforts are underway to capture the targeted terrorist commander and recover the intended ammunition.
The Joint Task Force reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, rescuing abducted civilians, and restoring peace and security in the North-East region. Military officials commended the troops for their professionalism and resilience, encouraging them to maintain the current operational pace.
