Troops from the 233 Tank Battalion in Yobe State have successfully apprehended nine individuals believed to be collaborators with terrorist groups. The arrests took place during a covert operation in Damaturu on the night of October 5, 2026, around 11:20 PM, following actionable intelligence regarding a network suspected of facilitating terrorist activities in the area.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported on X that the operation was initiated after receiving credible information about the collaboration network operating within Damaturu metropolis. The troops managed to detain the alleged leader of the syndicate along with eight other members during the operation.

In addition to the arrests, the troops recovered several items that are believed to be linked to the suspects' activities. These items included one vehicle, ten mobile phones, seven ATM cards, seven caps, two cartons of dried fish, and a sum of N376,400 in cash. The recovered items, along with the suspects, have been handed over to Headquarters Sector 2 of Operation Hadin Kai for further investigation and appropriate action.

The recent arrests are anticipated to bolster ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the North-East region of Nigeria. Authorities hope that the information gathered from the suspects will provide insights into their operations, contacts, and potential connections to larger terrorist elements in the area. This operation underscores the military's commitment to enhancing security and combating terrorism in Yobe State and its surroundings.