“Nigerian Forces Kill Over 300 Terrorists, Free 610 Kidnap Victims in Month-Long Operations”

The Defence Headquarters has announced that troops neutralised 324 terrorists, arrested 373 suspects, and rescued 610 kidnap victims across Nigeria in August 2026, while 201 insurgents surrendered to troops and 88 weapons were recovered during the month-long operations.

ValidViewNetwork gathered that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Monday, August 31, 2026, announced significant operational successes by the Armed Forces of Nigeria across the country in August 2026.

Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed the figures at the monthly press briefing on ongoing military operations.

According to the DHQ, troops achieved the following in August 2026:

· 324 terrorists and criminals neutralised

· 373 suspects arrested

· 610 kidnap victims rescued

· 201 insurgents surrendered to troops

· 88 arms and 2,077 rounds of ammunition recovered

· 21 illegal refining sites destroyed

· 686,800 litres of stolen crude oil products recovered

A Significant Improvement

Onoja said the August figures represented a significant improvement in the military’s operational effectiveness, attributing the gains to intensified kinetic and non-kinetic operations, improved intelligence gathering and enhanced inter-agency cooperation.

The number of surrendered terrorists increased from 11 in June to 57 in July and 201 in August, indicating growing pressure on terrorist groups.

Rescue of 308 Abducted Persons

Onoja cited the rescue of 308 abducted persons, predominantly women and children, from the Kainji Lake National Park on August 5 as evidence of the security forces’ capacity to locate and rescue victims.

Assurances to Niger State Communities

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Speaking on the recent abduction of worshippers in Niger State, Onoja assured residents of Borgu and neighbouring communities that military operations would continue until the security threats were sufficiently degraded.

“The Armed Forces, therefore, reassures the people of Borgu and their communities that military operations against terrorists and criminals will be sustained in the local government area and its environs to ensure the safety of the community,” Onoja said.