Nigerian Army troops
Defence Headquarters (DHQ) reports that Nigerian troops have eliminated numerous terrorists, liberated over 170 kidnapped individuals, and prevented oil theft worth N241.2 million across various operational zones.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, gave an overview of military activities from July 10 to July 22 during a briefing in Abuja on Friday.
In the North East, Operation HADIN KAI troops conducted aggressive operations in areas such as Goniri, Madaganari, Amuda, Chenene, Tokumbere, and Lambawa-Kalari in Borno and Adamawa States. These efforts led to the arrest of 13 terrorists, the rescue of three hostages, and the apprehension of nine suspected collaborators in intelligence-driven missions. Kangye noted that sustained pressure prompted several terrorists and their families to surrender.
In the North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA troops carried out clearance missions in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kano, and Niger States, rescuing 106 kidnapped victims in Maru, Zamfara. Additionally, 32 hostages, including 27 women and five children, were handed over to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) through non-kinetic efforts. Six terrorists were arrested, and troops recovered weapons, ammunition, illicit drugs, motorcycles, and N192,300 in cash. A notorious terrorist, Muhammadu Hamisu (alias Mamiyo), and five others were detained in joint operations with the Department of State Services (DSS) in Zamfara and Sokoto.
In the North Central region, Operation SAFE HAVEN troops neutralized multiple extremists and arrested six suspects in Plateau and Kaduna States, while rescuing 17 hostages and seizing arms, motorcycles, and vehicles. In Kaduna’s Sanga area, a gunrunner was apprehended with 350 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, alongside six other suspects. Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the FCT eliminated several extremists and arrested key suspects, including one linked to attacks near Federal University Wukari and an alleged informant for a kidnapper in Kogi. Eleven suspects were detained, and arms, ammunition, and logistics were seized, with investigations ongoing.
In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE troops uncovered and dismantled 14 illegal refining sites, intercepting 230,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 13,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 2,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). They also destroyed 30 crude oil cooking ovens, 28 dugout pits, 14 drums, seven storage tanks, and two boats, while apprehending 237 suspects.
Kangye emphasized that these achievements underscore the Armed Forces’ commitment to national security and stability.
“The military remains dedicated to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensuring peace. We value the cooperation of Nigerians and our partners, and we will continue to refine our strategies to secure a stable nation,” he said. (NAN)
