Troops arrest suspected terrorists, informant, drug peddlers; rescue victims, recover explosives in North East
Maiduguri, Nigeria — May 4, 2026
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have recorded significant operational successes, including the arrest of suspected terrorists and collaborators, rescue of kidnapped civilians, and recovery of explosive devices during coordinated operations across the theatre.
In one operation at Ngamdu, troops apprehended two suspected terrorists identified as Haruna Adamu (32) and Ibrahim Adamu (20), believed to have fled from Zamfara State into Yobe State. Items recovered from them include mobile phones, a power bank, identification cards, suspected illicit substances, charms, and other personal effects. The suspects have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
Similarly, troops of the 254 Battalion under Sector 2 arrested a suspected Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province informant, Ali Muhammad (30), at Ngamdu Market. The suspect, who had been on a watchlist, was found with cash, a mobile phone, identification cards, charms, a knife, and a notebook containing contacts of suspected terrorist elements. He is currently undergoing further interrogation.
In a separate operation around the Mubi general area of Adamawa State, troops arrested five suspected drug peddlers found in possession of various items, including ammunition. The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
Troops also responded to a kidnapping incident in Madagali Local Government Area in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), successfully rescuing two victims, Barnabas Apagu (12) and Ruth Apagu (10). Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of other abducted persons.
Additionally, troops deployed in the Kukareta area of Yobe State recovered a hand grenade believed to have been abandoned by fleeing terrorists. The explosive device was safely secured in line with standard procedures.
The military high command commended the troops for their gallantry and urged them to sustain the operational tempo. It also reassured the public of its commitment to degrading terrorist capabilities, protecting lives and property, and restoring peace and stability in the North East.
Members of the public were encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
