The Defence Headquarters has reported significant achievements by Nigerian troops across various operational theaters, including the elimination of terrorists, rescue of over 170 kidnapped victims, and prevention of oil theft worth N241.2 million.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, disclosed these results during a briefing in Abuja on Friday, covering military operations from July 10 to July 22.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI conducted offensive operations in Borno and Adamawa States, targeting locations such as Goniri, Madaganari, Amuda, Chenene, Tokumbere, and Lambawa-Kalari. These efforts led to the arrest of 13 terrorists and the rescue of three kidnapped victims.
Additionally, nine suspected collaborators were apprehended in intelligence-led operations. Kangye noted that a significant number of terrorists and their families surrendered as military pressure intensified in the region.
In Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kano, and Niger States, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out clearance operations, rescuing 106 kidnapped victims in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara. Another 32 victims, including 27 women and five children, were released to the Office of the National Security Adviser as part of non-kinetic engagements.
“Six terrorists were arrested during the operations, with a cache of weapons and ammunition also recovered,” Kangye stated.
He further highlighted the arrest of notorious terrorist Muhammadu Hamisu (alias Mamiyo) and five others in a joint operation with the Department of State Services in Zamfara and Sokoto. Recovered items included arms, illicit drugs, motorcycles, and N192,300 in cash.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized several extremists and arrested six suspects in Plateau and Kaduna States, rescuing 17 kidnapped victims. A gunrunner was also apprehended in Sanga LGA, Kaduna, with 350 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and six additional suspects.
In Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory, Operation WHIRL STROKE eliminated multiple extremists and arrested key suspects, including an individual linked to attacks near the Federal University Wukari in Taraba and an alleged informant for a kidnap kingpin in Kogi. Eleven suspects were arrested in total, with arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and other logistics recovered.
Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE dismantled 14 illegal refining sites, intercepting stolen crude oil and petroleum products. Recovered items included 230,400 litres of stolen crude, 13,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, and 2,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit.
Additionally, 30 crude oil cooking ovens, 28 dugout pits, 14 drums, seven storage tanks, two boats, and eight vehicles were destroyed, while 237 suspects were apprehended.
Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and restoring stability.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and security of our nation. The ongoing military operations have yielded significant progress in neutralizing threats and restoring peace in affected regions,” he said.
He expressed gratitude for public cooperation and support from security partners, emphasizing the military’s resolve to enhance strategies for a safer Nigeria.
