Again, Army kills 23 terrorists, rescues 26, apprehends 14 suspects

By Esegha Miracle, Bauchi

Following a series of coordinated operations across multiple theatres, the Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes in the ongoing fight against terrorism and criminality, neutralizing 23 terrorists, rescuing 26 captives, arresting 14 suspects, and recovering various weapons and logistics.

On 6 September 2025, troops of 17 Brigade, in collaboration with the Defence Special Operations Force and Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, conducted a major offensive in Pauwa village, Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State. The joint force made contact with terrorists entrenched on Pauwa Hill, leading to a fierce firefight supported by aerial intelligence and artillery fire. The operation resulted in the neutralization of 23 terrorists, the rescue of 12 women and 11 children held in captivity, and the recovery of five motorcycles, spare parts, food supplies, and other logistics, which were destroyed in situ.

Elsewhere, on 6 September, 4 family members of ISWAP/JAS terrorists comprising 2 women and 2 children surrendered to troops of 192 Battalion in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. Preliminary investigation revealed they fled from Lekshe village and are currently in custody for further profiling.

In Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, troops of 19 Brigade arrested a suspected terrorist logistics supplier attempting to move items from Cross Kauwa to Dawoshi village. Recovered from the suspect were a mobile phone, a wristwatch, ₦55,000 in cash, and other items. He remains in custody for further investigation.

In another development on 7 September, troops of 232 Battalion raided a criminal hideout in Muva village, Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State. The operation led to the arrest of 5 suspected thieves and drug peddlers, who have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police for prosecution.

Additionally, troops of 102 Guards Battalion at Dei-Dei Quick Response Group arrested 3 suspects involved in phone snatching and other criminal activities around Dei-Dei, Dakwa, and Zuba areas of the Federal Capital Territory. Four mobile phones and a smart watch were recovered. The suspects have been handed over to the police for further action.

Meanwhile, in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, troops on patrol rescued three kidnapped locals after engaging fleeing terrorists near Shaiskawa village.

The Nigerian Army remains committed to creating a safer environment that will boost agricultural activities in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to food security.