Army Neutralizes 152 Terrorists, Arrests 109, Rescues 91 Hostages

In a series of operations aimed at combating insecurity across Nigeria, the nation’s military forces have killed 152 terrorists, arrested 109 suspected terrorists and bandits, and rescued 91 kidnapped hostages within the past week. The military also dismantled terrorist strongholds and crippled criminal activities in various regions.

The operations, which included surgical strikes, targeted two key terrorist enclaves: Sadiku Enclave in Tsora Hill, Katsina State, and Alhaji Yusuf’s Enclave in Yadi Forest, Kaduna State. In addition to these successful raids, troops arrested two female collaborators who were responsible for negotiating ransom payments with the families of kidnapping victims.

Niger Delta Anti-Oil Theft Operations

In the Niger Delta, military forces dismantled 58 illegal refinery sites, thwarting crude oil theft operations valued at ₦795.68 million. Air strikes in Bugama, Idama, Cawthorne Channel, and Krakrama in Rivers State crippled oil theft activities, while ground forces foiled the theft of 725,920 liters of crude oil and 475,250 liters of illegally refined diesel (AGO).

Weapons and Ammunition Seized

The military’s efforts have also yielded significant recoveries of weapons and ammunition, including 183 firearms and 4,443 rounds of ammunition. Among the weapons recovered were 95 AK-47 rifles, 35 locally made guns, and 76 Dane guns. Additionally, the troops seized 4,131 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 165 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 28 cartridges.

North East Operations

In the North East, as part of Operation Hadin Kai, the military neutralized 63 terrorists, arrested 38 suspects, and rescued 35 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered a variety of weapons, including AK-47 rifles, RPG tubes, Dane guns, and motorcycles. Significant encounters occurred in Borno and Yobe states, where troops ambushed and killed numerous terrorists, including high-profile commanders.

North Central and North West Gains

The North Central region saw similar successes, with troops arresting 18 violent extremists and rescuing 14 kidnapped hostages. In Plateau State, troops intercepted and arrested criminals and kidnappers, recovering additional weapons and ammunition. Meanwhile, in the North West, Operation Hadarin Daji neutralized 105 terrorists, arrested 21 others, and rescued 36 kidnapped hostages.

Airstrikes and Special Operations

The air components of various military operations have played a critical role, with precision airstrikes targeting terrorist enclaves in both the North East and North West regions. In one operation, the spiritual leader of the ISWAP terrorist group, Goni Sanda, was killed, along with several other terrorists. Their armories and structures were destroyed.

Anti-Kidnapping Successes in the South East

In the South East, Operation UDO KA led to the rescue of two kidnapped hostages and the arrest of violent extremists in Enugu State. Similarly, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), troops arrested criminals and foiled kidnapping attempts.

Joint Efforts Lead to Significant Progress

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the military’s growing expertise in handling insurgency and criminal threats, noting that troops are continually refining their tactics to confront evolving challenges. He emphasized that the military is making steady progress in the fight against terrorism and criminality, and called on citizens to support the troops as they continue to safeguard the nation.

The Nigerian military remains steadfast in its commitment to eliminating all criminal elements and restoring peace across the country.

This article is sourced from The Vanguard newspaper, with minor edits and adaptations by The Spectacles for clarity and readability.