ABUJA: The Armed Forces of Nigeria recorded sweeping operational successes in the first quarter of 2026, rescuing 813 kidnapped victims, arresting over 1,300 suspects, and dismantling extensive criminal networks across the country.
Providing an overview at a press briefing in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, said troops sustained intense pressure on insurgents and criminal elements across the North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-South, and South-East theatres.
In the North-East, coordinated ground and air offensives led to the neutralization of several terrorists, including key commanders, while dozens surrendered under sustained military pressure. Hundreds of abducted civilians were also freed during the operations.
The military also confirmed the death of a senior insurgent leader at the hands of his own group, describing the development as a sign of disarray within terrorist ranks.
Operations in the North-West targeted banditry and kidnapping syndicates, leading to multiple rescues and arrests of suspected collaborators and logistics suppliers. Troops also intercepted a suspect transporting ammunition, underscoring efforts to disrupt arms supply chains.
In the North-Central region, security forces intercepted materials linked to improvised explosive devices, arrested suspected criminals, and rescued abductees. Rapid-response deployments further helped repel attacks on communities and key transport corridors.
Across the Middle Belt, intelligence-led raids exposed networks of informants and collaborators aiding criminal groups, resulting in additional arrests.
In the South-South, troops intensified the crackdown on oil theft, dismantling over 100 illegal refining sites and recovering more than 547,000 litres of petroleum products. Suspects linked to kidnapping and drug-related offences were also apprehended.
Meanwhile, in the South-East, targeted operations led to arrests, recovery of arms, and destruction of improvised explosive devices. Clearance missions in identified strongholds forced criminal elements to flee.
Overall, troops recovered hundreds of weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition, while nearly 200 insurgents surrendered during the period.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining momentum, pledging to intensify operations to consolidate gains and tackle emerging threats. It also urged citizens to continue providing timely intelligence, stressing that all operations are being conducted in line with legal and humanitarian standards.
