Troops arrest wanted terrorist’s wife, recover N37m in nationwide operations
Nigerian Military Reports Significant Operations Against Terrorism
The Nigerian military announced the arrest of Aisha Auta, the wife of a wanted terrorist leader, during recent operations across the country. The military also recovered 37 million naira in these efforts.
At a weekly press briefing, Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, reported that troops apprehended 20 suspected terrorists between February 13 and 19, 2026. Auta was arrested on February 19 in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State by members of Operation Whirl Stroke.
The arrest followed credible intelligence regarding terrorist activities in Kumeh village, Onoja stated. “On February 19, 2026, troops mobilized to the area based on information about terrorist actions and engaged the suspects,” he said. During the confrontation, military personnel neutralized several terrorists, while others reportedly fled with gunshot injuries. Subsequent searches in the area led to the recovery of various arms and ammunition.
In total, the operations resulted in the capture of 11 terrorists, including Auta, whose detention is anticipated to provide crucial intelligence regarding terrorist networks and financing pathways. Additionally, the military rescued 39 individuals who had been kidnapped during this time period.
