MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — Sustained military operations in Nigeria’s North-East have led to the surrender of 17 family members of suspected Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) insurgents to troops operating in Borno State, according to military authorities.
The military said the individuals surrendered voluntarily following intensified counter-insurgency operations targeting terrorist enclaves across the region. The latest development was attributed to continuous offensive operations designed to weaken insurgent groups and deny them freedom of movement within their traditional areas of operation.
According to military sources, the 17 individuals comprise women and children believed to be relatives of members of the terrorist group. Following their surrender, they were taken into military custody for profiling, documentation and further assessment in line with established procedures for handling persons leaving insurgent-controlled territories.
Military authorities stated that the sustained operational pressure has continued to disrupt terrorist activities, forcing many insurgents and their family members to abandon their hideouts. The armed forces said the campaign remains focused on dismantling terrorist networks, protecting civilian populations and restoring lasting peace to communities affected by years of insurgency.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the North-East, noting that security forces have intensified intelligence-driven missions, clearance patrols and coordinated operations aimed at eliminating remaining terrorist strongholds.
Officials explained that individuals who surrender are subjected to established screening procedures to determine their status and any possible involvement in criminal or terrorist activities. Appropriate government agencies then handle subsequent rehabilitation or prosecution processes in accordance with national laws and existing policies.
The armed forces also encouraged other insurgents and individuals associated with terrorist groups to surrender peacefully, assuring that those who voluntarily lay down their arms would be treated in accordance with applicable legal and humanitarian guidelines while investigations are conducted.
Security analysts say continued military pressure, combined with intelligence gathering and community cooperation, has contributed to the increasing number of defections and surrenders witnessed in recent years. They, however, caution that sustained vigilance remains necessary to prevent the regrouping of terrorist elements and to consolidate security gains.
The military further assured residents of Borno and neighbouring states that operations against terrorist groups would continue until all remaining strongholds are dismantled. It urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible information capable of assisting ongoing operations.
The Nigerian Armed Forces reiterated that restoring peace and stability in the North-East remains a national priority. It pledged to sustain offensive operations while working closely with other security agencies, humanitarian organisations and local communities to ensure lasting security and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons to their communities.
