Troops of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), working alongside the Yobe State Hunters Group, have arrested five suspected kidnappers during an intelligence-led operation in Jegalari Village, Fune Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The operation, which was carried out on July 23, 2026, was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni.
According to the statement, the operation was conducted by troops of the 233 Battalion, deployed at the Damaturu Military Cantonment, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected criminal elements operating in the area.
“The operation, executed by troops of 233 Battalion deployed at Damaturu Military Cantonment, followed credible intelligence on the activities of the suspected criminal elements,” the statement said.
During the raid, security operatives recovered a cache of weapons and other items believed to be connected to the suspects’ alleged criminal activities.
Recovered exhibits included three locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, one locally made pistol, assorted ammunition and four mobile phones.
According to the military, the suspects have been taken into custody along with the recovered items, while investigations continue to determine the full extent of their involvement in kidnapping and other criminal activities.
“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 reaffirmed that Operation HADIN KAI remains committed to combating terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the North-East through sustained 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 vigilant and continue supporting security efforts by providing timely information on suspicious 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. Timely and credible information from law-abiding citizens remains critical to ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and enhance security across the region,” Goni said.
The latest operation underscores ongoing efforts by security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and disrupt the activities of criminal groups operating in parts of the North-East.
