Troops Rescue 16 Hostages, Arrest 42 Terrorists

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has said troops arrested 42 terrorists, rescued 16 kidnap hostages in multiple operations across the theatre.

The director, defence media operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, who gave the figures in a statement on military operations from 17-23 April 2026 said one soldier paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

Troops also recovered arms and ammunition and stolen crude from economic saboteurs.

Among those arrested are terrorists couriers, informants, kidnappers and other criminal elements.

He said troops deployed to Atandara in Doma LGA, Nasarawa State on 17 April 2026 arrested one Mr Ibrahim Usman Abubakar, who was linked to a terrorist syndicate responsible for the killing of a police officer and two vigilantes along Agbashi Road in 2025.

Troops on 18 April 2026 arrested one Mr Khalid Usman for stabbing a police officer, Inspector Kabiru Muhammed, during a foot patrol at the Congo Russia Area, Jos North LGA, Plateau State.

In a related development, troops arrested one Azi Izang in possession of rounds of 7.62mm ammunition along Grey Garden West of Mines in Jos North LGA.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede while commending troops for their dedication across theatres however, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of Corporal Abubakar Sadiq, who was killed by Boko Haram terrorists.

“His courage, resilience, and devotion to duty embody the finest ideals of the armed forces. Though taken in such painful circumstances, his sacrifice will forever be honoured and remembered,” he said.