Nigeria’s Armed Forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and insurgency within the nation.
These ongoing military operations are a testament to the military’s dedication to national security interests and the protection of its citizens from the brutal violence of extremist groups.
This was made known in a release today September 14, 2023, to newsmen by Major General Edward Buba, Director, Defence Media Operations
The report highlighted success recorded by the Armed forces across different Operations throughout the nation which are outlined as follows.
Troops engaged in Operation HADIN KAI (NORTH EAST) arrested suspected terrorist collaborators in various locations, including Borno and Yobe States. Ambushes and raids on suspected terrorist hideouts in Borno State’s Konduga and Gwoza LGAs yielded positive results, leading to the elimination of terrorists and the retrieval of arms and ammunitions. A remarkable haul of seized weaponry includes 17 AK47 rifles, 3 locally fabricated rifles, 3 locally made guns, a Beretta pistol, dane guns, various rounds of ammunition, magazines, petroleum products, vehicles, mobile phones, motorcycles, and other items. Additionally, 44 terrorists were neutralized, 21 were arrested, and 4 kidnapped hostages were successfully rescued.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL) carried out successful raids on criminal hideouts in Plateau State, leading to the neutralization and arrest of terrorists and suspected criminals. The operation resulted in the recovery of numerous arms and ammunitions, including AK47 rifles, pistols, locally fabricated rifles, dane guns, and magazines. Additionally, motorcycles were confiscated.In total, 16 terrorists were neutralized, 16 were arrested, and one kidnapped hostage was rescued during Operation SAFE HAVEN. These operations aimed to enhance security and peace in the Plateau State region.
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE conducted fighting patrol and arrested suspected terrorists in Guma LGA of Benue State.
of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 15 terrorists, arrested 6 terrorists and rescued one kidnapped hostage. Troops also recovered 7 AK47 rifles, 4 pistols, 10 rounds of 7.62mm special and 3 empty magazines.
Troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST) rescued kidnapped hostages in Zamfara and Katsina States, leading to the arrest of terrorists’ collaborators. In Zamfara, a firefight resulted in the neutralization of terrorists, the rescue of kidnapped victims, and their safe return to their families.
Troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH neutralized and rescue kidnapped hostages at Igabi and Chikun LGAs of Kaduna State. Troops offensive actions resulted in the arrest of suspected terrorists collaborators in Mokwa LGA of Niger State.
Overall, troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH eliminated 17 terrorists, arrested 3 suspected terrorists and rescued 7 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 34 assorted weapons, 399 IED detonator primers, one vehicle and 2 motorcycles.
Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE(SOUTH SOUTH) maintained momentum against the activities of crude oil theft. Troops destroyed several illegal refining sites and recovered stolen products. Troops also raided criminal hideout in Tai LGA of Rivers State.
Overall, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE destroyed 21 dugout pits, 56 boats, 138 storage tanks, 14 vehicles, 235 cooking ovens, 6 pumping machine, 2 mobile phones, 89 illegal refining sites and the sum of N13,950. Troops also recovered about 1,205,950 litres of stolen crude oil, 452,910 litres of illegally refined AGO, 22,650 litres of PMS and 3000 litres of DPK, one tricycle and 15 assorted weapons. Troops also arrested 59 suspected oil thefts and other criminal elements.
Troops of operation UDO KA offensive operations led to arrest of suspected criminals in Aba North and Owerri North of Abia and Imo States respectively.
In the conduct of operations, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralized 17 terrorists, arrested 11 suspected criminals and rescued 2 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 10 AK47 rifles, 5 dane guns, 7 pump action guns, 4 magazines and 34 cartridges. All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.
The Armed Forces didn’t limit their efforts to land operations alone; they conducted air recce and air interdiction missions over strategic locations to deter terrorist activities effectively.
Of note is the revelation that some perpetrators of terrorism and insurgency are exploiting these activities for personal gain, particularly through illegal mining and other unlawful ventures.
The military remains vigilant in addressing these complex challenges, as achieving peace and security in Nigeria remains a top priority.
In conclusion Major General Edward Buba reiterated that The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute and determined in their mission to secure the country, and the outcomes of these operations leave no doubt about their commitment to achieving peace and security for all Nigerians.
