Troops, Hunters Arrest Five Suspected Kidnappers in Yobe, Recover Firearms
Intelligence-led operation in Fune LGA leads to arrest of suspects as military intensifies crackdown on criminal groups
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 was carried out on July 23, 2026, by personnel of the 233 Battalion based at the Damaturu Military Cantonment after security operatives received credible intelligence about the activities of suspected criminal elements in the community.
During the raid, the joint team 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 operations.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Friday, the Acting Military Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the suspects had been taken into custody for further investigation.
“The suspects are currently in military custody alongside the recovered exhibits for further investigation to ascertain their involvement in kidnapping and other related criminal activities,” Goni stated.
The military described the operation as part of its sustained campaign to dismantle criminal and terrorist networks operating across the North-East through intelligence-driven operations.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its commitment to denying terrorists and other criminal elements freedom of action across the North East through sustained intelligence-driven operations,” the statement added.
The military also appealed to residents to remain alert and continue supporting security agencies with useful information capable of preventing criminal activities.
“The military urges members of the general public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the nearest security agency,” the statement said.
It further emphasised that timely and credible intelligence from law-abiding citizens remains essential to ongoing efforts to protect communities and strengthen security across the region.
