Nigerian troops have killed several terrorists, rescued over 170 kidnapped victims, and foiled crude oil theft worth more than N241 million during recent operations across the country, according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, disclosed this on Friday while briefing journalists in Abuja. He said the operations, conducted between July 10 and 22, targeted criminal elements in the North East, North West, North Central, and South-South regions.
In the North East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI carried out offensives in Borno and Adamawa States, leading to the arrest of 13 terrorists and the rescue of three kidnapped victims. Nine suspected collaborators were also apprehended, while many terrorists reportedly surrendered along with their families.
In the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA rescued 106 kidnap victims in Zamfara State, while another 32 victims, including 27 women and five children were released through non-combat interventions facilitated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
Six terrorists were arrested, and arms, illicit drugs, motorcycles, and N192,300 in cash were recovered. Among those apprehended was a notorious terrorist, Muhammadu Hamisu (alias Mamiyo), arrested during joint operations with the Department of State Services (DSS).
In the North Central region, Operation SAFE HAVEN troops neutralised several extremists and arrested six suspects in Plateau and Kaduna States. Seventeen kidnap victims were rescued, and a suspected arms dealer was arrested in Kaduna with 350 rounds of ammunition.
In Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE arrested 11 suspects. These included a man linked to attacks near the Federal University Wukari and another believed to be an informant to a kidnap syndicate in Kogi.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE dismantled 14 illegal refining sites in the South-South, seizing 230,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 13,000 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 2,500 litres of petrol. Other items recovered include boats, vehicles, storage tanks, and 30 crude oil cooking ovens. A total of 237 suspects were arrested during the operation.
Kangye said the Armed Forces would continue to intensify efforts to safeguard national security.
“The ongoing military operations have yielded significant progress in neutralising threats and restoring peace,” he said. “We will continue to enhance our strategies and capabilities to ensure a secure and stable Nigeria for all citizens.”
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