By Elizabeth Tanko
North East, Nigeria — Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI, OPHK, have dealt fresh blows to terrorists and criminal gangs with the surrender of a Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter in Borno State and the arrest of 6 suspected kidnappers in Adamawa State.
In a statement on Monday, 14th September, 2026, the Theatre Command said the operations were conducted on 13th September.
According to Capt. Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, troops of 29 Task Force Brigade; Sector 2 OPHK, alongside Forest Guards, received a repentant BH/ISWAP terrorist at Borgozo, Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area, LGA of Borno State.
The fighter said he escaped from a terrorist enclave to abandon terrorism.
Items recovered include 1 AK-47 rifle, 14 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 4 magazines, 1 IED, 1 magazine pouch, and a bicycle. He is in custody for profiling and investigation.
In a related operation in Adamawa State, Sector 4 OPHK troops working with local hunters raided a hideout around Soktu Hill, Song LGA, following credible intelligence on a kidnapping syndicate.
Three suspects were arrested at the scene with 1 Dane gun recovered. Follow-up covert operations led to the arrest of 3 more members, bringing the total to 6.
Preliminary findings show the syndicate operated around Soktu, Dumne and Maigero areas of Song LGA and admitted to several abductions for ransom and other violent crimes. All 6 suspects are in military custody for further investigation and prosecution.
The Theatre Command said the successes reflect sustained offensive operations to deny terrorists and criminals freedom of action across the Joint Operations Area.
It reaffirmed commitment to creating a safer environment for citizens and enabling socio-economic activities to thrive in the North East Region.
