Nigeria's forces neutralise 485 terrorists, rescue 595 kidnapping victims, and disrupt bandit networks

The Nigerian Armed Forces reported extensive operations against terrorist and bandit groups in both the North‑East and North‑West regions. Under Operation Hadin Kai, troops neutralised 485 terrorists, apprehended 370 suspects and rescued 595 kidnapping victims in the second quarter, including a multi‑axis assault on 6 June that freed 360 civilians in Gwoza, Borno. The operation also saw the surrender of 38 insurgents and the recovery of weapons and vehicles, though one soldier and a Civilian Joint Task Force member were killed.

In the North‑West, Operation Fansan Yamma conducted multiple actions: two terrorists were killed and a kidnapped victim rescued in Kaduna and Zamfara states, with 110 stolen cattle recovered; two Lakurawa terrorists were neutralised in Kebbi, and weapons including AK‑47 rifles and ammunition were seized. Troops also dismantled an illegal arms factory in Kebbi, confiscating five locally fabricated AK‑47s and arresting two suspects. Air‑component strikes on 29 June targeted over 200 suspected terrorists in Niger State and disrupted bandit movements in Kaduna State, further degrading hostile capabilities.