Terrorists, Other Criminals, Continue To Suffer Heavy Defeats, As Military Sustains Campaign Against Insecurity Across The Country

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has highlighted key operational activities and outcomes recorded within the first quarter of the year, 2026, on the ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, (AFN)

From the detailed analysis and data dished out by the DHQ, terrorists, bandits, Kidnappers and other criminals, across the country are daily incuring heavy losses following onslaught by the military.

Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, made provided deep insight of the while briefing Journalists on Tuesday , in Abuja, at the combined First Quarter/Monthly Media Briefing on ongoing military operations across the various theatres of operation.

“In the North East, North West, North Central, South South, South East and other operational areas, troops remain actively engaged in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and internal security operations in support of civil authorities.

“This briefing will therefore provide a comprehensive overview of operational progress, highlight key achievements, and outline ongoing efforts to address evolving security dynamics across the country.

“We will also share insights into measures being implemented to consolidate gains and enhance operational effectiveness in all theatres. Let us start from:

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH EAST OPERATION HADIN KAI

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained aggressive and unrelenting kinetic campaign against remnants of Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) across Borno, Adamawa, Bauchi, Taraba, Yobe, and Gombe States.

Operations during the quarter were bolstered by aerial reconnaissance, air interdiction missions, and close air support, which targeted insurgent strongholds in remote and border regions.

Troops neutralized several terrorist leaders and scores of fighters, arrested 274 suspects, rescued 168 kidnapped victims, and facilitated the surrender of 90 insurgents and their families.

In a significant development bearing testament to the operational pressure exerted on the terrorist group, the ISWAP has confirmed the death of senior leader and Shura Council member Abu Yahya Al-Muhajir, describing it as a major loss to the group.

This confirmation underscores the sustained effectiveness of AFN kinetic operations in degrading ISWAP’s command and leadership structure.

In the month of March 2026, troops neutralized scores of terrorists, arrested over 20 suspects, and rescued 24 kidnapped victims. Key highlights include: on 2 March 2026, troops neutralized top terrorist ring leaders; Saddam, Saleh Garin Kago, and Ba Alayi Benbem alongside over 18 ring leaders and 42 fighters in a precision air strike in Sambisa Forest.

Troops repelled coordinated ISWAP attacks across Njimtilo, Baga, Buratai, and Damboa; the repulsion of a complex drone attack at Mallam Fatori, Abadam LGA yielded 74 terrorist corpses including senior leaders, along with 38 AK-47 rifles, 3 PKT machine guns, one RPG tube, and assorted ammunition. On 11 March 2026, over 20 terrorists including the high-value target Abu Yusu popularly known as Munzir of Dursula were neutralized at Goniri, Yobe State, in a multi-directional ISWAP night attack.

Fourteen insurgents surrendered during the period, bringing the cumulative total of insurgents surrendered to troops of Operation HADIN KAI to 122,843.

Further, on 27 March 2026, troops operating along Marte-Dikwa Road in Dikwa LGA of Borno State engaged terrorists in an ambush, forcing them to flee and recovered 8 bicycles and assorted provisions.

On 28 March 2026, troops successfully repelled a terrorist attack at Mandaraugirau, Biu LGA of Borno State, neutralized 4 terrorists and recovered 5 AK-47 rifles, 8 magazines, 2 RPG bombs, and assorted ammunition.

Separately, troops foiled an attempted infiltration of an IDP camp at Damasak, Mobbar LGA; repelled a terrorist attack in Askira Uba LGA; arrested a terrorist collaborator at Hausari IDP Camp, Damboa LGA; and intercepted 34 jerricans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along Karasuwa–Jajiri Road, Yusufari LGA of Yobe State, disrupting terrorist logistics supply.

Further on 29 March 2026, troops intercepted a vehicle in Jere LGA of Borno State. A search of the vehicle revealed several cartons of assorted pharmaceutical drugs, motorcycle tubes, motorcycle tyres, mosquito nets, rolls of mats, cartons of air fastener cylinders for heavy trucks, and cartons of detergents.

Preliminary investigation established that the items lacked requisite security clearance and were being transported to Kusuri, a border town with Chad Republic.

Items suspected to be transported for terrorists’ usage.

Additionally on the same date, troops in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) arrested a suspected terrorist logistics supplier at Muna Garage in the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council of Borno State.

The suspect was found conveying 25 one-litre containers of Amasco engine oil concealed in sacks, as well as some amount of money.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was engaged in procuring and supplying logistics and sundry items, including motorcycle spare parts, to terrorists, and had been involved in such criminal enterprise for an extended period.

The suspect, along with all recovered items, are in custody for further investigation and necessary action.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH WEST OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA maintained sustained operational tempo across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States through seamless integration of ground manoeuvres, air interdiction, real-time intelligence, and community collaboration.

Across the quarter, troops neutralized scores of terrorists, arrested 114 suspects, and rescued 386 kidnapped victims.

In the month of March 2026, key successes include: the destruction of a Lakurawa group terrorist enclave in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto State on 8 March 2026; arrest of 15 suspected logistics suppliers with 9 motorcycles and 19 jerrycans of PMS in Sabon Birni LGA of Sokoto State on 10 March 2026; rescue of four kidnapped victims along the Alikere–Yankara axis, Faskari LGA of Katsina State on 13 March 2026; and the rescue of the Secretary of Kibiya LGA from a forest hideout in conjunction with DSS operatives on 25 March 2026.

On 27 March 2026, troops foiled a terrorist attack at Gesa Village, Illela LGA of Sokoto State, compelling the assailants to flee on sighting security forces. On 28 March 2026, troops rescued a kidnapped victim at Ungwan Isha Village, Sanga LGA of Kaduna State, and rescued an injured victim following a terrorist attack along Randa–Magamin Didi Road, Maradun LGA of Zamfara State.

Troops also repelled terrorist attacks in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara State; arrested a suspected kidnapper in Sakaba LGA of Kebbi State; restored normalcy during a communal disturbance in Zurmi LGA of Zamfara State.

Furthermore, on 29 March 2026, a joint team mounted a snap checkpoint at Dambo Community in Zaria LGA of Kaduna State, following intelligence on a suspected gunrunner moving from Jos to Kaduna via the Dambo axis.

The operation led to the apprehension of the suspect in possession of 200 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition.

The suspect was subsequently moved to ONSA Headquarters, Abuja, for further necessary action.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION SAVANNAH SHIELD

Troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD extended their operational presence in Kwara and Niger States, conducting targeted intelligence-driven offensives against terrorist hideouts in forested corridors and border terrains.

Key successes during the quarter include the neutralization of scores of terrorists, arrest of suspects, and significant arms recoveries.

On 1 March 2026, over 17 terrorists were neutralized at Roguwa Forest, Patigi LGA of Niger State.

On 28 February 2026, eight 50-kg bags of ammonium chloride confirmed as an IED precursor were intercepted on the Eruku–Egbe Road, Ekiti LGA of Kwara State. On 22 March 2026, terrorists attacked an ECWA Church at Ora-Ago Community, Ifelodun LGA of Kwara State, abducting nine worshippers, troops and vigilantes swiftly rescued three victims. On 23 March 2026, six suspected terrorists were arrested with a locally made pistol and ammunition at Oke Onigbin, Isin LGA of Kwara State.

On 26 March 2026, seven illegal miners, including four foreign nationals from Niger Republic, were arrested at Luma Village, Borgu LGA of Niger State.

Furthermore, on 27 March 2026, troops at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kotonkoro responded to a distress call reporting a terrorist attack on a commercial vehicle along Kotonkoro–Bangi–Kontagora Road in Kontagora LGA of Niger State.

On arrival, the terrorists fled upon sighting the troops. The vehicle driver and one other passenger were rescued in the process.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION ENDURING PEACE

Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE sustained coordinated security operations across Plateau, Bauchi, Kaduna, Kogi, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory.

During the quarter, troops neutralized several extremists, arrested 210 suspects, and rescued 61 kidnapped victims, recovered arms and ammunition in multiple targeted raids.

In March 2026, key highlights include: interception of 802 bags of granular ammonium sulphate at a checkpoint in Tafawa Balewa LGA of Bauchi State on 11 March 2026; rescue of multiple kidnapped victims across Plateau, Kogi, and Benue States; arrest of nine drug suspects in Barkin Ladi LGA on 20 March 2026; dismantling of an illegal mining site along the Chaza–Izom axis into Gwagwalada, FCT with eight suspects arrested on 18 March 2026; and the neutralization of one terrorist and recovery of arms at Owara Community, Lokoja LGA of Kogi State on 24 March 2026. On 28 March 2026, troops arrested 2 suspected terrorist informants in Kuje Area Council of the FCT, recovering 3 GSM phones, while 3 terrorist collaborators linked to ransom collection and intelligence support networks were apprehended during raid operations in Kabba/Bunu LGA of Kogi State.

Troops also intervened in a civil disturbance at Tahoss Village, Riyom LGA of Plateau State, recovering 9 cows and preventing further escalation.

A joint security coordination meeting was conducted at the Kuje Medium Correctional Centre to enhance inter-agency collaboration and strengthen facility security.

Furthermore, on 29 March 2026, troops acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of a bandit logistics courier, mounted snap checks along Jamata–Owara Road in Lokoja LGA of Kogi State.

Troops intercepted and arrested a suspect riding a Honda motorcycle. A thorough search of the motorcycle revealed a modified fuel tank fitted to conceal and transport ammunition without arousing suspicion, along with three mobile phones and a purchase receipt on the suspect’s person.

Examination of the phones revealed links to a notorious terrorist named Dere, as well as one Joshua Egwakhide, a kidnap victim from Okpella in Edo State.

Further interrogation of the suspect led to the identification of a terrorist logistics extraction point. Troops subsequently moved to the location and laid in wait. Contact was made, resulting in the neutralization of one terrorist, while others fled.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION WHIRL STROKE

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE sustained robust security operations across Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and parts of Kogi States, addressing farmer-herder conflicts, banditry, and kidnapping.

During the quarter, troops neutralized terrorists, arrested 139 suspects, and rescued 73 kidnapped victims, recovering various weapons.

In the month of March 2026, key highlights include: arrest of twelve suspected terrorists at Atachi, Lokoja LGA of Kogi State with one AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and some amount of money; neutralization of two terrorists and recovery of arms, 82 SIM cards, and multiple ATM cards in Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State on 9 March 2026; neutralization of one terrorist and arrest of four suspects in Gwer West LGA of Benue State on 23 March 2026; and arrest of five suspects with six locally fabricated guns at Amla Icho, Otukpo LGA on 23 March 2026.

JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH-SOUTH OPERATION DELTA SAFE

Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE intensified operations to combat illegal oil bunkering, crude oil theft, kidnapping, and criminality across the South South region and adjoining states. During the quarter, troops arrested 219 suspects, dismantled 101 illegal refining sites, and recovered over 547,920 litres of petroleum products such as crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) combined.

Furthermore, in March 2026, key highlights include: interception of approximately 45,000 litres of stolen crude oil in a wooden boat near Cool Beach, Bonny LGA of Rivers State on 27 February 2026; total petroleum products recovered during the period are 193,570 litres; neutralization of three suspected kidnappers at Egoro Forest, Etsako West LGA of Edo State on 10 March 2026; rescue of three kidnapped victims in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State on 16 March 2026; discovery and deactivation of multiple illegal refining sites in Ahoada West LGA of Rivers State and Ohaji/Egbema LGA of Imo State; and arrest of a suspected kidnapper at Eghonk Forest, Etsako West LGA of Edo State on 26 March 2026. On 27 March 2026, troops in conjunction with the NDLEA conducted a raid in Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State, resulting in the arrest of 13 drug suspects and recovery of illicit substances and equipment.

On 28 March 2026, troops disrupted illegal oil activities in Ikot Abasi LGA of Akwa Ibom State; uncovered a sabotage attempt at a wellhead in Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA of Bayelsa State, where explosives rigged for vandalization were detected and safely neutralized; rescued 2 kidnapped victims in Etsako West LGA of Edo State following sustained pursuit; and arrested 58 illegal miners in Akoko Edo LGA, significantly disrupting illegal activities.

JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH EAST OPERATION UDO KA

Troops of Operation UDO KA targeted criminal elements of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), sustaining clearance and anti-criminality operations across Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States. During the quarter, troops arrested 91 suspects and rescued 14 kidnapped victims, recovering arms, ammunition, and IED materials, while over 80 militants surrendered to troops in January 2026. In the month of January 2026, troops neutralized terrorists, arrested 22 suspects, and rescued 11 kidnapped victims; eight Cameroonian nationals were rescued during cross-border patrols along Bakassi waterways.

Troops neutralized terrorists at an IPOB/ESN logistics hub, recovering foreign currency, weapons, and a Police (MOPOL) shirt bearing Biafran IPOB insignia. In February 2026, troops arrested 54 terrorists and criminal elements.

A key operation against an identified IPOB/ESN logistics hub saw terrorists repelled by superior firepower, with battle damage assessment confirming the neutralization of scores and the wounding of others.

In the month of March 2026, key highlights include: discovery and safe destruction of 11 IEDs during route clearance along the Eketutu–Uda axis, Orsu LGA of Imo State on 7–8 March 2026; dismantling of three illegal refining sites in Egbema West LGA of Imo State on 11 March 2026 with 32 cooking drums and one 5,000-litre storage tank destroyed; neutralization of two IED specialists and recovery of three IEDs and IED-making materials at Orsu-Ihiteukwa on 14 March 2026; detonation of five IEDs during clearance at Orsumoghu, Ihiala LGA of Anambra State on 22 March 2026; and destruction of a major illegal refining site in Ohaji/Egbema LGA of Imo State on 23 March 2026, yielding approximately 23,000 litres of illegally refined and stolen petroleum products. On 27 March 2026, troops conducted aggressive clearance operations across Lilu and surrounding communities in Ihiala LGA of Anambra State.

During the operation, troops encountered IEDs and hostile fire but responded effectively, forcing the terrorists to flee, with no casualties recorded among own troops.

In conclusion, Major General Onoja noted that the First Quarter of 2026 demonstrated the unwavering resolve, professionalism, and gallantry of the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Across seven operational theatres, the AFN delivered measurable strategic outcomes: scores of terrorists and criminal leaders eliminated; 1,359 suspects arrested; 813 kidnapped civilians rescued; 197 insurgents surrendered; 458 arms and 15,899 rounds of ammunition recovered; 101 illegal refining sites dismantled; and over 547,920 litres of stolen petroleum products recovered representing a significant degradation of criminal and terrorist operational capacity nationwide. Notably, the confirmation by ISWAP of the death of senior Shura Council member Abu Yahya Al-Muhajir attests to the irreversible impact of AFN’s sustained kinetic operations on the group’s command structure.

The AFN reaffirms its commitment to operating in strict accordance with its rules of engagement, international humanitarian law, the Geneva Conventions, and all applicable legal frameworks.

He assured that the ongoing operations will be further intensified to decisively dismantle all remaining criminal and terrorist elements.

Furthermore, he stated that the AFN continues to monitor the activities of non-state actors and will hold them accountable.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, extends profound appreciation to all AFN personnel for their sacrifice and dedication.

He commends the invaluable support of sister security agencies, the media, and the Nigerian public, whose cooperation and timely intelligence remain critical to operational success.

The CDS pays solemn tribute to those who paid the supreme price in service to the nation, reassuring their families that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

The CDS acknowledges the Presidential Directive to create a special fund for veterans and the military personnel who are victims/affected by war.

This kind gesture is indicative of the Commander in Chiefs appreciation of the sacrifices of service personnel.

The public is urged to remain vigilant and continue to report suspicious activities to security agencies.
God bless the AFN.