Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), under Operation DESERT SANITY, have recorded fresh operational gains, including the rescue of abducted civilians, disruption of terrorist logistics, and the arrest of suspected collaborators across parts of Nigeria’s North East.
In a precision operation following credible intelligence and an air interdiction around the Mandara Mountains, troops successfully rescued six abducted women and children at a suspected terrorist crossing point near Amuda on 12 May 2026. Mandara Mountains
The victims—comprising Aisha Musa (18), Aisha Mohammed (17), Fatima Yahaya (20), Saudatu Musa (4), Garba Mohammed (5), and a three-month-old infant, Mohammed Yahaya—were reportedly abducted from Ngoshe community during a Boko Haram/ISWAP attack on 3 March 2026. Ngoshe community
Following their rescue, the victims received medical attention at a military facility before being reunited with their families through the Bulama of Ngoshe, Mallam Adamu Gunda.
In a separate development on the same day, troops deployed at Tango 7 in Konduga Local Government Area arrested a suspected terrorist associate, Hauwa Bulama (40), during an operational engagement. Konduga
Recovered items from the suspect included household goods such as detergent, washing soap, a torchlight, and seasoning cubes. Preliminary investigation suggests she was allegedly en route to Gezuwa to link up with suspected terrorist relatives.
In another follow-up intelligence-led operation in Damaturu, troops under Sector 2, supported by Military Intelligence elements, arrested two additional suspects identified as Bakura (18) and Adiza (17). Damaturu Yobe State
The arrests are linked to earlier operations involving the interception of a suspected ammunition courier, Ba’akaka Abubakar (alias Modogol), who was allegedly preparing to supply arms to terrorist elements. Investigators say Adiza was tasked with collecting ammunition for onward delivery to a terrorist commander, who is currently being tracked.
Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to apprehend remaining members of the network and recover the intended consignment of ammunition.
The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups, dismantled their support structures, and rescued all abducted civilians across the theatre of operations.
Military High Command commended the troops for their professionalism and resilience, urged them to maintain the current operational tempo.
