Troops Arrest 5 Suspected Kidnappers, Recover Arms In Yobe

Troops of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in collaboration with the Yobe State Hunters Group, have arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered arms during an intelligence-led operation in Yobe State.

The Nigerian Army disclosed this in a statement released on Friday, July 24, 2026, and signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri.

According to the statement, the operation was carried out on July 23, 2026, at Jegalari Village in Fune Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The Army said the operation was conducted by troops of the 233 Battalion, deployed at the Damaturu Military Cantonment, following credible intelligence on the activities of the suspected kidnappers.

It stated that the coordinated raid led to the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of several weapons and other items believed to be connected to their alleged criminal activities.

“Troops of Sector 2 Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in conjunction with the Yobe State Hunters Group, have arrested five suspected kidnappers during a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation conducted on 23 July 2026 at Jegalari Village in Fune Local Government Area of Yobe State,” the statement read.

It added, “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 Army said troops recovered three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, one locally made pistol, assorted ammunition, and four mobile phones believed to have been used by the suspects in carrying out criminal activities.

According to the statement, the suspects are currently in military custody alongside the recovered exhibits pending further investigation.

“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,” it stated.

Reaffirming its commitment to tackling insecurity in the North-East, Operation HADIN KAI said it would continue to sustain intelligence-driven operations aimed at denying terrorists and other criminal groups freedom of action across the region.

“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 statement said.

The military also appealed to members of the public to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

“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,” the statement added.