RismadarVoice Reporters
October 19, 2026
Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested two suspected kidnappers in Plateau State, rescued an injured community leader and recovered ammunition allegedly linked to terrorist logistics operations in Sokoto State.
The developments were disclosed in a military operational report covering security activities conducted between October 17 and 18 across the North-Central, North-West and North-East regions.
According to the report, soldiers apprehended two suspected kidnappers riding a motorcycle at Pentor village in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State on October 17.
The suspects were alleged to be members of a criminal gang responsible for kidnapping and other attacks affecting communities in Chanso, Pushit and Janaret districts.
In a separate operation, troops rescued the chairman of Miyetti Allah in Langai District after he reportedly sustained gunshot wounds during an attack by suspected armed assailants.
The victim was rescued around the Makera axis and evacuated to General Hospital Botto for medical treatment.
Military authorities said preliminary information suggested that the attack might be connected to remarks the community leader made during a burial ceremony, where he reportedly urged residents to reject criminal activities and stop destroying farmlands.
However, the motive has not been independently established, and efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible are continuing.
Meanwhile, in Sokoto State, troops of the 248 Reconnaissance Battalion Quick Reaction Force conducted a security operation along the Tumbulukum–Saurna Road in Illela Local Government Area.
The operation followed intelligence about suspected logistics suppliers associated with the Lakurawa terrorist group.
During the operation, an unidentified suspect reportedly abandoned a motorcycle and escaped after sighting soldiers.
A subsequent search uncovered 107 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and five additional rounds of 7.62mm ammunition concealed inside the motorcycle’s engine compartment.
In Borno State, troops working with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force also recovered two AK-47 rifles and a motorcycle near Forward Operating Base Mairari in Guzamala Local Government Area.
The items were reportedly abandoned during an earlier attack attributed to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on October 13.
The military said the operations formed part of continuing efforts to disrupt criminal networks, intercept weapons supplies and improve security in vulnerable communities.
