Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested four suspected Boko Haram terrorists following a night ambush in Yobe State, while 11 other terrorists reportedly surrendered and nine suspected drug dealers were arrested during operations conducted between September 15 and 22, 2026.
The Joint Task Force (North East) said the operations also led to the recovery of a vehicle, ammunition and other logistics items as troops continued efforts to disrupt terrorist networks and restrict their freedom of movement across the North-East.
The latest arrest followed an ambush conducted by troops of 27 Task Force Brigade in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force east of Azare village in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
According to the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Capt. Mohammed Goni, the troops laid the ambush at about 11pm on September 21.
He said the troops made contact with suspected terrorists and engaged them in a firefight, forcing some of the fleeing elements to abandon the area.
“Troops made contact with suspected terrorists and engaged them in a firefight with superior firepower,” Goni said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
During a subsequent search of the area, the troops arrested four suspected terrorists.
The military said blood traces found in the area suggested that some of the fleeing terrorists may have sustained gunshot wounds.
The troops also recovered four bicycles, a large quantity of groceries, one sheep and expended 7.62mm Special ammunition cases.
The suspects and recovered items have been taken into military custody for further investigation, while troops continue to search the area.
In a related operation, troops arrested nine suspected drug dealers during a routine patrol in Buni Yadi, also in Gujba LGA, on September 19.
The suspects were reportedly found with a large quantity of suspected illicit drugs and cannabis, two mobile phones and ₦85,900 in cash.
The military said the operation was part of efforts to disrupt criminal activities that could undermine security and create an environment conducive to terrorism and other violent crimes.
The suspects and exhibits were subsequently handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and necessary legal action.
The Joint Task Force said the latest operations formed part of cumulative successes recorded between September 15 and 22, including the surrender of 11 terrorists and the recovery of a vehicle, ammunition and other logistics items.
According to the military, the results demonstrate the impact of sustained operational pressure on terrorist elements and their support networks.
“The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, remains resolute in sustaining operational momentum, disrupting terrorist and criminal networks and denying them freedom of action across the North East,” the statement said.
The military said troops would continue offensive and intelligence-led operations across the Joint Operations Area to degrade terrorist capabilities and protect communities.
