Troops of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, working alongside the Yobe State Hunters Group, have arrested five suspected kidnappers during a coordinated intelligence-led operation in Jegalari Village, Fune Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The operation, carried out on July 23, 2026, was executed by troops of the 233 Battalion stationed at the Damaturu Military Cantonment following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected criminal elements operating within the area.
During the operation, security personnel recovered three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, one locally made pistol, assorted ammunition and four mobile phones believed to be connected to the suspects’ alleged criminal activities.
Confirming the development, the Acting Military Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the suspects have been taken into military custody for further investigation.
He explained that the recovered weapons and other exhibits would also undergo examination as investigators work to determine the suspects’ involvement in kidnapping and other criminal offences.
According to the military, the operation forms part of its sustained campaign to deny terrorists and other criminal groups the ability to operate freely across the North-East through intelligence-driven operations.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security in the region and dismantling criminal networks threatening the safety of residents.
It also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious individuals, movements or activities to security agencies, stressing that credible and timely information from citizens remains essential to ongoing efforts to protect lives and communities.
