Troops Neutralise Terrorists, Rescue 32 Abducted Victims in Major Katsina Operation

Katsina, Nigeria 🇳🇬  28 May 2026

Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded another major success against criminal elements in Katsina State after neutralising several terrorists, rescuing 32 kidnapped victims, and preventing an attempted sabotage attack on government infrastructure near the Nigeria–Niger border.

Military authorities said the operation was carried out during coordinated offensives targeting terrorist hideouts and criminal networks operating within border communities in the state.

According to security sources, the troops acted on credible intelligence indicating that armed terrorists were planning attacks on strategic facilities belonging to the Nigerian Immigration Service close to the Republic of Niger.

The troops reportedly stormed the area and engaged the terrorists in an intense exchange of gunfire. Several of the insurgents were killed during the operation, while others escaped into surrounding forests with varying degrees of injuries.

The military operation also led to the successful rescue of 32 kidnapped victims, including women and children, who had allegedly been held captive by the terrorists for days.

Officials disclosed that the rescued victims were immediately evacuated to safety, where they received medical attention, food supplies, and psychological support before being reunited with their families.

Security operatives said the swift response by troops prevented what could have been a major attack on immigration facilities and other government infrastructure situated around the border region.

During clearance operations, troops reportedly recovered weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, communication devices, and other materials suspected to belong to the terrorists.

Military authorities described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist cells, curb cross-border criminal activities, and restore peace across troubled communities in the North-West region.

The Armed Forces noted that border communities around Katsina State have recently experienced increased threats from bandits and terrorists exploiting difficult terrains and porous international borders to launch attacks and carry out kidnappings.

Residents in some of the affected communities reportedly praised the military for the successful rescue mission and the intensified security operations aimed at protecting lives and property.

Security experts have also commended the operation, describing it as a significant boost to ongoing counterterrorism efforts in northern Nigeria.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive offensives against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups threatening national security, while urging citizens to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.