Troops Arrest Wanted Terrorist Leader’s Wife, Recover N37m in Nationwide Operations

The Nigerian military has announced significant gains in its ongoing counter-terrorism operations, including the arrest of the wife of a wanted terrorist ring leader and the recovery of N37 million across various theatres of operation nationwide.

The disclosure was made during a weekly briefing by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who outlined achievements recorded by troops between February 13 and 19, 2026.

Arrest in Benue: Wife of Wanted Terrorist Leader Apprehended

According to the military high command, one of the most notable arrests during the period was that of Aisha Auta, identified as the wife of a notorious and wanted terrorist kingpin.

Akahi News gathered that Auta was apprehended on February 19 by troops of Operation Whirl Stroke in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. Her arrest followed actionable intelligence pointing to terrorist activities in Kumeh village within the council area.

Speaking with newsmen, Major General Onoja explained that troops swiftly mobilised to the location upon receiving credible intelligence.

“In a notable encounter on February 19, 2026, following information about terrorist activities at Kumeh village in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Benue State, troops mobilised to the area and engaged the terrorists,” he said.

He added that during the exchange of gunfire, several terrorists were neutralised, while others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.

Arms, Ammunition Recovered After Fierce Exchange

Following the engagement, troops conducted what the military described as a thorough exploitation of the general area.

Akahi News learnt that caches of arms and ammunition were recovered during the mop-up operations, although specific details of the weapons seized were not disclosed at the briefing.

The military further revealed that a total of 20 suspected terrorists were arrested within the review period, with 11 of them apprehended in coordinated operations linked to the Benue raid.

The arrest of Aisha Auta, according to the Defence Headquarters, is expected to provide valuable intelligence regarding terrorist network structures, logistics, and financing channels.

Security analysts note that disrupting financial and logistical support systems remains critical to weakening insurgent operations across the country.

N37 Million Recovered, 39 Kidnap Victims Rescued

Beyond arrests, the military also reported the recovery of N37 million believed to be linked to terrorist financing and criminal activities.

In addition, troops rescued 39 kidnapped victims during various operations across the country within the same timeframe.

Akahi News gathered that the rescue operations were conducted in multiple states facing security challenges, reflecting what the military described as intensified intelligence-driven offensives.

Broader Implications for National Security

The latest operations come amid sustained efforts by the Armed Forces to curb terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across different regions.

Security experts argue that targeting high-profile associates and financiers of terrorist leaders could significantly disrupt operational capacity and morale within criminal networks.

However, they also caution that sustained intelligence gathering, community cooperation, and inter-agency collaboration remain essential for long-term stability.

As operations continue nationwide, the Defence Headquarters has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and urged citizens to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.

The coming weeks are expected to reveal whether the arrest of the suspect will lead to further breakthroughs in dismantling terror cells and criminal syndicates operating within the country.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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