Troops nab 5 suspected kidnappers in Yobe

Five suspected kidnappers were apprehended by Nigerian troops in Yobe State on July 23, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation. The arrests took place in Jegalari Village, Fune Local Government Area, and were carried out by soldiers from the 233 Battalion, supported by the Yobe State Hunters Group.

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The operation, executed by troops of 233 Battalion deployed at Damaturu Military Cantonment, followed credible intelligence on the activities of the suspected criminal elements.

The operation, coordinated by Sector 2 Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), resulted in the recovery of three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, one homemade pistol, various ammunition, and four mobile phones. These items are believed to be connected to the suspects' alleged criminal activities.

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The suspects are currently in military custody alongside the recovered exhibits for further investigation to ascertain their involvement in kidnapping and other related criminal activities.

Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Media Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, stated that the suspects are in military custody for further investigation. He emphasized the military's commitment to combating terrorism and criminal elements in the North East through sustained, intelligence-driven operations.

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Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its commitment to denying terrorists and other criminal elements freedom of action across the North East through sustained intelligence-driven operations.

The military is urging the public to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest security agency. Captain Goni highlighted that timely information from citizens is crucial for safeguarding communities and enhancing regional security.

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The military urges members of the general public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the nearest security agency. Timely and credible information from law-abiding citizens remains critical to ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and enhance security across the region.