Nigerian troops neutralize 129 terrorists, rescue 542 kidnap victims in June

Nigerian military forces have reported significant successes in counter-terrorism and anti-criminality operations throughout June 2026. During the month, troops neutralized 129 terrorists and other criminal elements, apprehended 486 suspects, and successfully rescued 542 individuals who had been kidnapped.

These operations, conducted across the country, also involved dismantling seven illegal oil refining sites. The military recovered substantial quantities of stolen petroleum products, amounting to 308,515 liters, and seized 130 firearms along with 5,538 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, 11 insurgents surrendered to the authorities during this period.

Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, presented these figures during a briefing in Abuja, highlighting the military's achievements for June and the second quarter of 2026. He noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria neutralized a total of 662 terrorists and criminals in the second quarter, arrested 1,084 suspects, and rescued 951 kidnapped civilians. The military also received the surrender of 39 insurgents and dismantled 12 illegal refining sites during the quarter.

“

For the second quarter of 2026, the Armed Forces of Nigeria neutralised 662 terrorists and criminals, arrested 1,084 terrorist suspects and other criminals, rescued 951 kidnapped civilians and received the surrender of 39 insurgents.

One of the major achievements highlighted was the rescue of over 360 civilians from the Mandara Mountains in Borno State on June 6. The military also focused on disrupting insurgent logistics networks, recovering arms and ammunition, intercepting illicit petroleum products, and targeting the command structures of groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Onoja stated that all operations adhered to international humanitarian law and the rules of engagement.

In the North-East, Operation Hadin Kai troops were particularly active in June, neutralizing 76 terrorists, arresting 97 suspects, and rescuing 465 kidnapped victims. The operation in the Mandara Mountains on June 6 led to the rescue of 360 civilians, primarily women and children abducted in March. Troops also recovered hijacked vehicles and repelled terrorist attacks in Borno and Adamawa states. However, a soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed during an operation to rescue pupils and a teacher from a school attack in Borno State on June 29.

“

The rescue of over 360 civilians from the Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State on June 6 was one of the military’s major achievements during the period.