Troops Arrest Wife of Wanted Terror Leader, Rescue 39 Kidnap Victims

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the arrest of Aisha Auta, wife of a wanted terrorist kingpin, during coordinated military operations across the country.

Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this while briefing defence correspondents on activities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria between February 13 and 19, 2026.

According to him, troops arrested 20 suspects in various theatres of operation within the period. Among them was Auta, who was apprehended on February 19 by operatives of Operation Whirl Stroke in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

Onoja said her arrest could provide critical intelligence regarding terrorist networks, logistics and financing.

He explained that troops mobilised to Kumeh village in Katsina-Ala following intelligence reports of terrorist activity. During a confrontation, several insurgents were neutralised, while others reportedly fled with gunshot wounds. Weapons and ammunition of various calibres were recovered during a sweep of the area.

In total, 11 terror suspects were arrested in that axis, including Auta. Within the same timeframe, forces also rescued 39 kidnapped victims in separate operations.

In a related development, Onoja revealed that on February 16, troops on routine patrol along the Maiduguri–Magumeri road intercepted five individuals found with N37 million in cash.

The suspects reportedly claimed the funds were intended for distribution to vulnerable communities on behalf of Action Against Hunger. However, both the suspects and the money remain in custody pending investigation to verify the legitimacy of the transaction and rule out possible links to aid diversion or terror financing.