By Paul Joseph
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have intensified operations against terrorist and criminal networks in Yobe State, arresting four suspected Boko Haram terrorists during a night ambush while 11 others surrendered to the military between September 15 and 22, 2026.
The operation also led to the arrest of nine suspected drug dealers, while troops recovered a vehicle, ammunition and other logistics items as security forces continued efforts to disrupt terrorist activities and restrict their freedom of movement across the North East.
The latest arrests followed a night ambush conducted by troops of 27 Task Force Brigade, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), east of Azare Village in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
According to the military, the troops laid the ambush at about 11pm on September 21 and made contact with suspected terrorists moving through the area.
A firefight reportedly followed, with the troops gaining the upper hand through superior firepower.
During subsequent exploitation of the area, four suspected terrorists were arrested.
The military said blood traces found around the area suggested that some of the fleeing terrorist elements may have sustained injuries, although the number of possible casualties was not immediately established.
Items recovered from the area included four bicycles, a large quantity of groceries, one sheep and expended 7.62mm Special ammunition cases.
The arrested suspects and recovered items have been taken into military custody for further investigation, while troops continue to exploit the area.
In a separate operation, troops of the brigade arrested nine suspected drug dealers during a routine patrol in Buni Yadi, also in Gujba LGA, on September 19.
The suspects were allegedly found with a large quantity of suspected illicit drugs and cannabis, two mobile phones and ₦85,900 in cash.
The military said the operation was part of efforts to disrupt criminal activities that could create an enabling environment for terrorism and other violent crimes.
The suspects and recovered exhibits have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
11 terrorists surrender
The military also reported the surrender of 11 terrorists during the period under review, alongside the recovery of a vehicle, ammunition and other logistics items.
The Joint Task Force said the combined successes recorded between September 15 and 22 reflected the continuing pressure being placed on terrorist elements and their support networks in the North East.
The formation said it would sustain offensive and intelligence-driven operations aimed at disrupting terrorist and criminal networks and denying them freedom of action across its Joint Operations Area.
The statement was signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, on September 22, 2026.
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