By Chimezie Godfrey
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded major breakthroughs in the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry, and violent crime, killing a notorious terrorist kingpin, recovering arms and ammunition, and rescuing kidnap victims in a wave of coordinated operations across the country.
Between June 25 and 26, 2025, troops operating under various theatres—including Operations HADIN KAI, FASAN YAMA, WHIRL STROKE, and SAFE HAVEN—conducted aggressive raids, patrols, and interdictions, dealing decisive blows to criminal elements.
In the North East, troops of 82 Division Task Force Battalion, supported by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, carried out a fighting patrol in Ngoshe, Gwoza LGA of Borno State. During the operation, they recovered 408 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 1,200 rounds of 7.62mm, and two 40mm RPG bombs along a known ISWAP/JAS withdrawal route.
Similarly, troops of 21 Special Armoured Brigade neutralized three terrorists during a clearance operation in Bama LGA, recovered a locally made Dane gun, and destroyed several terrorist hideouts.
In Monguno, troops of Sector 3 intercepted a suspicious vehicle loaded with suspected terrorist logistics. One suspect was apprehended, and items recovered included 65 litres of PMS, bags of foodstuff, fertilizers, motorcycle parts, solar lights, and mobile phones—believed to be supplies for insurgents.
Terrorist Kingpin Neutralised in Zamfara
In a separate operation, troops of Operation FASAN YAMA under 1 Brigade neutralized a dreaded terrorist leader identified as Mai Dada during a counter-attack in Maru LGA of Zamfara State.
“Mai Dada’s elimination is a major blow to the terrorist network in Zamfara. He was a key figure behind recent attacks in the region,” a senior military source revealed.
Arms Recovered, Kidnap Attempts Foiled
In Kaduna, troops of 2 Battalion on escort duty in Birnin Gwari engaged armed bandits on motorcycles and recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. In Edo State, troops arrested a criminal suspect in Etsako Central LGA with a pump-action shotgun and cutlasses.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN, using UAV support, conducted an offensive in six communities across Bokkos LGA in Plateau State and recovered a Dane gun after suspected criminals fled into the hills.
In the North Central zone, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue State rescued five kidnapped victims after a firefight with kidnappers along the Peykia–Wukari road in Ukum LGA. A vehicle was also recovered during the operation.
In the South-South, troops of 5 Battalion in Ogbia LGA of Bayelsa State arrested two suspects in possession of locally fabricated pistols and a round of 9mm ammunition.
Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the Armed Forces remain committed to rooting out all criminal networks and restoring peace nationwide.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will sustain the momentum and continue working with other security agencies to secure every inch of our territory,” Kangye affirmed.