Army

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A joint security team has rescued three kidnapped victims and killed two suspected terrorists in a fierce gun battle in Edo State, dealing a major blow to a criminal gang that had been terrorising the Ambrose Alli University community.

The operation, launched on Monday following a distress call about a kidnapping on the university campus, saw soldiers from the Nigerian Army working alongside police officers and local vigilantes in a high-speed chase that led them deep into a forest hideout in Esan Local Government Area.

According to military sources, the security forces cornered the abductors at their camp, triggering an intense exchange of gunfire. The troops’ overwhelming firepower neutralised two of the gunmen and sent the rest of the gang scattering in panic, forcing them to flee without their captives. All three victims were found unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.

Recovered from the scene were three AK-47 rifles, thirty-nine rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three mobile phones, and two power banks. Authorities have taken custody of the items while tracking teams pursue the fleeing suspects.

The Nigerian Army has reiterated its resolve to sustain pressure on criminal networks, calling on residents to volunteer intelligence on suspicious movements and hideouts. “We will not relent until every part of Edo State is rid of these elements,” a military spokesman assured, urging citizens to go about their daily activities without fear.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Sector 7 of the Nigerian Army have intercepted suspected arms traffickers and recovered seven illegal firearms during an operation in Kaduna State.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the development in a post on Monday. He said the operation took place at the Samaru checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area.

According to him, the troops carried out a targeted stop-and-search operation at about 9:40 a.m. after receiving intelligence that illegal weapons were being transported from Jos in Plateau State to Niger State.

Makama said security personnel were informed that suspected arms traffickers were conveying the weapons in an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

He added that the troops identified the vehicle based on the intelligence, tracked its movement and intercepted it at the Samaru checkpoint.

The operation led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of seven illegal firearms, which were allegedly destined for bandits.

Security authorities have yet to release the identities of the suspects or provide further details about the ongoing investigation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of Sector 7, Operation ENDURING PEACE, have intercepted a large cache of illegal weapons during a targeted operation at a checkpoint in Kaduna State, dealing a blow to a suspected arms trafficking network.

Acting on intelligence about weapons being moved from Jos to Niger State, soldiers stopped an ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz at the Samaru Checkpoint in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area in the early hours of Monday. A search of the vehicle uncovered three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles and four submachine guns (SMGs) carefully hidden inside.

One suspect attempted to flee the scene and was shot by troops during the escape attempt. He is currently receiving medical treatment at the Sector 7 Medical Centre in Kafanchan.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the weapons were supplied by two suspected dealers based in Jos and were destined for a recipient in Niger State.

The Nigerian Army described the seizure as a testament to its resolve to curb arms proliferation and dismantle criminal networks. Authorities have called on the public to continue providing timely information to security agencies to help track criminal activities.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Mrs. Abubakar, wife of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, following a fierce gun battle with armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The rescue operation, conducted under the ongoing Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, was launched after intelligence reports confirmed the abduction of the retired senior officer’s wife and other family members.

Military sources told Zagazola that troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga village during a search-and-rescue mission. The armed group came under heavy military pressure and fled the scene.

“The bandits shot her and fled when we made contact at Tunga village. We have rescued Mrs. Abubakar. She is bleeding, we have given her first aid and are moving her for urgent medical attention,” a military source said.

The victim was immediately stabilized by troops before being evacuated to a medical facility for further treatment.

Military authorities have since intensified follow-up operations in the area, with troops maintaining a coordinated pursuit of the fleeing bandits and suspected kingpins linked to the attack and abduction.

Security sources assured that the ongoing clearance operation under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III will continue until all criminal hideouts are dismantled. The military remains committed to tracking down those responsible and ensuring they face justice.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Reports have emerged that retired General Rabe Abubakar, former spokesman for the Nigerian military, and his wife have been abducted by armed bandits. Sources indicate the couple is urgently appealing for help as they remain in the hands of their captors.

The incident has sparked widespread concern and public outcry, with many expressing shock and fear that a senior military officer could fall victim to kidnapping within the country.

Security analysts say the development underscores the need to review the nation’s security framework and intensify efforts to protect lives and property without further delay.

Citizens are continuing to urge the government and security agencies to take immediate action to secure the victims’ release and bring an end to the growing insecurity across the nation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a 25-year-old woman, Nafisa Usman, for allegedly supplying ammunition to bandits operating in Katsina State.

The suspect was apprehended at a major motor park in Kano after purchasing a fresh batch of ammunition from Nasarawa State, intended for delivery to Kankara in Katsina State.

According to DSS sources, Usman, a native of Zango village in Kankara Local Government Area, was intercepted with 200 rounds of newly manufactured ammunition cleverly concealed inside bags of garri and rice.

During interrogation, the suspect confessed that she sourced the ammunition from Lafia, Nasarawa State, and transported it to Unguwa Uku Motor Park in Kano before arranging onward delivery to Katsina. She admitted that the ammunition was destined for bandits hiding in the Kankara forest.

Usman disclosed that she had been active in the illegal trade for only two months. She named an individual identified as “Teso,” who allegedly works with a soldier in Lafia, as her supplier.

She further revealed that she delivered ammunition to a bandit leader known as Mallam Haruna, operating within the Kankara forest. According to her, Haruna was introduced to her by a livestock trader named Sulaiman, based in Kano.

The suspect claimed to have conducted transactions worth approximately ₦5 million within two months, supplying ammunition not only to Haruna but also to other bandits identified as Buba and Abu, who are believed to be active in the same forest.

Expressing deep regret, Usman said her illicit activities had now been exposed. She is currently in DSS custody as investigations continue.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the 2 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have disrupted an attempt by suspected criminals to siphon diesel from equipment belonging to Sterling Petroleum and Fertilizer Limited in Akwa Ibom State.

This is contained in a statement signed by Lawal Bala Muhammad, a Captain and Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters of 2 Brigade in Akwa Ibom, on March 27, 2026.

The incident occurred at Ukpe Ete in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area after soldiers acted on intelligence about illegal activities around the company’s facility. The troops moved to the location and carried out an operation that led to the arrest of a driver who was transporting the stolen products.

Sources said the situation took a dramatic turn when the troops attempted to return the suspect and recovered items to the company for further questioning. Some youths in the area blocked the road in a bid to free the suspect. They attacked the soldiers with stones and bottles despite efforts by the troops to maintain calm.

The army personnel fired warning shots to disperse the crowd. The action did not bring the situation under control. The confrontation intensified and forced the troops to identify and neutralise the ringleader, who was shot in the leg. He was later taken to a hospital for treatment.

The unrest escalated as the youths reportedly vandalised vehicles, harassed commuters, and attacked trucks belonging to the company along the route.

Reinforcements were later deployed from the Brigade to restore order. After the crowd was dispersed, troops carried out further checks in the area. During the operation, they discovered an unidentified corpse placed beside a coffin. Security personnel moved the body to a mortuary with support from the Nigeria Police Force.

The army said troops have remained in the area to secure the company’s assets and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

In the statement, the military authorities appreciated members of the public for their cooperation. They also assured residents of their resolve to protect lives and property across the state. The public was urged to share useful information with security agencies as investigations continue.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death of a man allegedly shot by troops on March 22, 2026, stating that preliminary findings suggest the incident may be linked to insurgent activity rather than an extrajudicial killing.

The incident, which occurred around 11:40 p.m. near the Polo Axis close to the Federal High Court, involved the death of Abdulrahman Mustapha, also referred to as Abchin. Social media reports had alleged that the victim, who was reportedly unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit, was killed unlawfully, prompting calls for an independent probe and accountability.

In a statement released on Thursday, the military acknowledged the gravity of the allegations but noted that early operational indicators suggest a more complex scenario. According to the Theatre Command, troops may have encountered individuals linked to a Boko Haram or ISWAP reconnaissance element or a sleeper cell operating in the area.

The command cited several factors to support this preliminary assessment, including reports that the deceased allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle—an action classified as a direct threat to troop safety. Authorities also claimed that upon searching the individual, they found multiple identification cards bearing different names, including a foreign identification card from the Niger Republic, alongside a bottle of Tutolin Syrup and several wraps of a substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa.

Military officials further stated that the victim was reportedly accompanied by two unidentified women who fled the scene and remain at large. Eyewitness accounts, according to the command, indicated that the individual’s behavior before the shooting was suspicious enough to prompt a distress call to the nearest military location.

“These preliminary details remain subject to verification and should not be construed as definitive conclusions,” the statement read, emphasizing that a comprehensive and impartial investigation is ongoing to determine compliance with the military’s Rules of Engagement and operational procedures.

The Theatre Command assured the public that due process would be followed and that all relevant components of Operation HADIN KAI have been directed to intensify efforts to locate the fleeing women, who may possess critical information.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of human rights while continuing its mandate to safeguard lives and maintain security in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intensified military operations against terrorist enclaves across Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi states. The offensive, which began earlier in the week, is aimed at protecting communities and eliminating criminal elements in the region.

In Sokoto State, troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion VII engaged terrorists twice on March 25, 2026, at the Magonho Forest. During the encounters, three bandits were killed. The troops also recovered three AK-47 rifles and motorcycles.

In Zamfara State, troops carried out a successful ambush along the Gada Maya–Makakari Village road on the same day. Two terrorists were neutralised, while others fled the scene. Recovered items include one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a Baofeng radio, two mobile phones and a motorcycle.

Later that day, terrorists attacked Kaida Village, accusing residents of collaborating with security forces. Troops responded promptly. One additional terrorist was neutralised, while another AK-47 rifle was recovered.

In another operation, troops acted on credible intelligence and moved into Dutsi Village in Moriki District of Zurmi Local Government Area. The pressure from the troops forced the terrorists to flee. They abandoned one AK-47 rifle, a magazine and 26 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

In Kebbi State, troops received intelligence on the presence of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group in Giron Masa community of Shanga Local Government Area. On approach, the troops were ambushed about 500 metres before reaching the village. Despite the attack, they stood firm. Reinforcements and combat support have been deployed, while efforts continue to track and neutralise the fleeing terrorists.

Military authorities said 8 Division/Sector 2 OPFY remains committed to dominating the operational space, degrading terrorist capabilities and protecting law-abiding citizens. They added that troops remain highly motivated and continue to display courage and professionalism in line with directives from the Chief of Army Staff.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the 35 Artillery Brigade have intercepted 296 large wraps of substances believed to be Cannabis Sativa along the Abeokuta–Igboora Road in Ogun State.

The operation took place at about 4:30 a.m. on March 1, 2026, after the troops received credible intelligence about the planned movement of suspected illicit drugs along the route. Acting swiftly on the information, the soldiers moved to the area and stopped a motorcycle without a registration number.

During a search, the troops discovered 296 large wraps of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, also known as Indian hemp. The items were hidden inside three large sacks. The suspect reportedly abandoned the motorcycle and escaped into a nearby bush under the cover of darkness.

The seized exhibits have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ogun State Command, for further investigation and necessary action.

The 35 Artillery Brigade reiterated its determination to rid Ogun State of drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The Brigade warned individuals involved in illegal trade to embrace lawful means of livelihood or face the consequences of security operations.

It also reassured residents of Ogun State of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property. The Brigade stated that troops will sustain a strong presence across the state to ensure that criminal elements do not operate freely.

The statement was signed by Major IderegHI Samuel Akari, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, and dated March 2, 2026.