AWC SECURITY DESK
Abuja, June 18, 2026 – Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has reported significant operational successes across multiple theatres of engagement in the ongoing fight against terrorism, kidnapping, arms trafficking, crude oil theft, and other violent crimes nationwide.
According to an operational update released by military authorities, coordinated offensives under various joint task force operations recorded decisive breakthroughs between June 5 and June 11, 2026, with notable gains in the North East, North West, and North Central regions.
In the North East under Operation Hadin Kai, troops rescued 360 abducted civilians from the Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, while additional escaped victims were successfully reunited with their families. Security forces also confirmed the surrender of a terrorist in Monguno and the arrest of multiple informants, logistics suppliers, and collaborators across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States. An additional 11 suspected collaborators were intercepted in Kukawa LGA.
Troops recovered significant military hardware including one PKT machine gun, one AK-47 rifle, over 1,070 rounds of ammunition, seven motorcycles, and communication equipment, while also repelling an attempted attack on a military position in Mallam Fatori.
In the North West under Operation Fasan Yamma, security forces arrested an arms dealer and several suspected terrorists in Zamfara State and Maru LGA. Two terrorists were neutralized during patrol operations, while a logistics supply hub used by criminal elements was destroyed. A cordon-and-search operation further disrupted terrorist hideouts across the region.
Recovered items included a locally fabricated firearm, over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, motorcycles, mobile phones, power banks, communication radios, and camouflage uniforms, highlighting the scale of terrorist logistics dismantled.
In the North Central region under Operation Savannah Shield, intelligence-led operations dismantled surveillance networks in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. Several suspects linked to terrorist activities were arrested alongside a high-value informant. Security forces also recovered intelligence devices, a propaganda tool linked to a terrorist commander, cash assets, and a motorcycle.
Under Operation Enduring Peace in Plateau State and surrounding areas, troops successfully rescued kidnapped victims in Riyom and Barkin Ladi LGAs, arrested wanted kidnappers, and disrupted kidnapping-for-ransom networks. One suspect was also arrested with a concealed firearm.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that all operations remain active across Nigeria’s theatres, with sustained intelligence-driven missions, enhanced coordination, and improved equipment readiness.
Military authorities emphasized that these operations reflect ongoing commitment to restoring peace, strengthening national security, and dismantling criminal networks across the country.
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