In a sweeping week of coordinated operations across the country, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have dealt a decisive blow to terrorist groups and criminal syndicates, arresting over 100 suspects, neutralizing scores of insurgents, and rescuing several kidnapped victims, including women and children.
By Chimezie Godfrey
In a sweeping week of coordinated operations across the country, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have dealt a decisive blow to terrorist groups and criminal syndicates, arresting over 100 suspects, neutralizing scores of insurgents, and rescuing several kidnapped victims, including women and children.
The most significant economic sabotage was thwarted in the Niger Delta, where troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft valued at over ₦83.7 million. Security forces destroyed 10 illegal refining sites and seized 76,610 litres of stolen crude oil and 8,425 litres of illegally refined diesel. “These criminal networks are bleeding the country’s economy,” said Major General Markus Kangye, Director, Defence Media Operations. “This is a major disruption to their illegal operations.”
In the North-East, the military recorded critical gains as dozens of Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, including women and children, surrendered to troops in Borno and Yobe States. Troops also rescued five kidnapped victims and arrested 11 collaborators supplying logistics to the terrorists. “Our heightened tempo is forcing them out of hiding,” Kangye stated.
North-West operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA yielded substantial breakthroughs, with troops eliminating several terrorists and arresting two suspects in Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi states. Recovered items included arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and even unexploded ordnance.
In Plateau, Kaduna, and parts of Nasarawa and Taraba, troops under Operations SAFE HAVEN and WHIRL STROKE engaged in anti-kidnapping raids, killing extremists, arresting over 40 suspects, and rescuing multiple victims. In one operation alone, 33 criminals were arrested, and two hostages freed.
The South-East was not left out, as troops under Operation UDO KA dismantled a terrorist camp in Imo State, arrested multiple accomplices in Anambra, and recovered weapons, hospital equipment, and IEDs. A notorious car snatcher was also nabbed in Abia State.
General Kangye reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding the nation, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. “We are making steady progress. With the continued support of the Nigerian people, these threats will be completely neutralized,” he said.