Nigerian troops have killed terrorists, rescued kidnap victims, foiled oil theft and recovered arms across five geopolitical zones in intensified nationwide security operations
Troops Kill Terrorists, Seize Arms, Rescue Victims in Nationwide Operations
Troops engaged in internal security operations across Nigeria have killed several terrorists, arrested criminal collaborators, rescued dozens of kidnapped victims and recovered a massive cache of arms, ammunition and stolen crude oil in a sweeping nationwide offensive.
The operations, conducted over the past week across five geopolitical zones, form part of the military’s intensified onslaught against terrorism, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities threatening national security.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed that the troops recorded significant successes across the North East, North West, North Central, South-South and South-East theatres.
North East: ISWAP Attack Repelled, Terrorists Neutralised
In the North East, where troops are battling Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) elements, several terrorists were killed, weapons were recovered and three kidnap victims rescued.
According to the statement, troops successfully repelled an ISWAP assault on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, neutralising two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) before they could breach the base.
“The operation led to multiple terrorist casualties and the seizure of weapons, ammunition and logistics,” the statement said.
Troops also discovered and safely detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Damboa–Komala axis, ensuring the safety of commuters. Additionally, a Lagos-registered vehicle conveying suspected logistics for terrorists was intercepted along the Maiduguri–Bama Road, leading to the arrest of two suspects.
“Seven collaborators, informants, sympathisers and spies were arrested, while three kidnapped victims were rescued,” Onoja added.
North West: Terrorists Killed, Ransom Funds Intercepted
In the North West, between December 12 and 17, troops conducted coordinated operations across parts of Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina and Niger States.
During the operations, several terrorists were killed, eight suspects arrested, and four kidnap victims rescued, alongside the recovery of weapons, vehicles, livestock and household items.
Earlier, on December 3, troops intercepted ₦9 million during a routine check in Kadage, Igabi LGA of Kaduna State, which was reportedly meant as ransom to secure the release of six abducted children.
“Efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators,” the statement said.
North Central: Dozens of Kidnap Victims Rescued
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace conducted operations between December 13 and 18 across parts of Plateau and Kaduna States, neutralising several terrorists, arresting 16 suspects and rescuing 19 kidnap victims.
Similarly, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE carried out offensive operations in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States, responding to multiple distress calls linked to kidnapping.
“During the operations, eight suspected kidnappers were arrested, while 43 kidnapped victims were rescued,” the statement revealed.
Arms, ammunition, motorcycles and other items were also recovered.
South-South: Oil Theft Crushed, Illegal Refineries Destroyed
In the Operation DELTA SAFE theatre covering Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers and Imo States, troops recorded major gains against oil theft.
The military said it foiled oil theft valued at over ₦15.69 million, recovering 652,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,510 litres of diesel and 2,015 litres of petrol.
Three illegal refining sites were destroyed, while five oil thieves were arrested.
Between December 13 and 17, joint land and air operations led to the arrest of nine criminal suspects, including three suspected gunrunners, in Bayelsa and Rivers States.
South-East: IPOB/ESN Elements Engaged
In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA conducted offensive operations against IPOB/Eastern Security Network (ESN) elements.
“Between December 12 and 15, troops arrested four suspected criminals in Ihiala, Ogbaru and Onitsha North LGAs of Anambra State,” the statement said.
Impersonation Arrest in Edo
The military also disclosed that on December 11, following credible intelligence, troops arrested two individuals impersonating the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, in Utesi, Ovia South West LGA of Edo State.
The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing investigation.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that the Armed Forces remain resolute in dismantling criminal networks, cutting off terrorist logistics and ensuring the safety of citizens across the country.
