Nigerian Army Neutralizes 18 Terrorists and Arrests 37 in Intensive 24-Hour Nationwide Operations
The Nigerian Army has reported a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and criminal activities across the country. In a series of coordinated, intelligence-driven operations conducted over the past 24 hours, troops successfully killed 18 terrorists and apprehended 37 suspects. Additionally, nine kidnapped victims were rescued, and a cache of arms and ammunition was recovered, dealing a severe blow to armed groups operating in various regions.
North-East Theatre Yields Weapons and Arrests
In the north-east, particularly in Borno and Yobe states, military operations yielded substantial results. Following a recent attack on a military formation in Goniri, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State, troops conducted follow-up missions and discovered the bodies of nine terrorists along escape routes. During this operation, soldiers recovered one AK-47 rifle, two 60mm mortar bombs, two rocket-propelled grenade bombs, and nine belts of assorted ammunition.
In a separate mission in Damaturu Local Government Area of Yobe State, troops, in collaboration with local hunters, executed a cordon-and-search operation that led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper. The exercise also resulted in the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and an empty magazine, further disrupting criminal networks in the area.
Troops Repel Attacks and Target Kidnap Syndicates
Elsewhere, in Cross River State, soldiers responding to a distress call during a communal disturbance in Obubra Local Government Area were ambushed by armed men while returning from their assignment. The troops effectively repelled the assault, killing four gunmen and restoring calm to the region.
In Borno State, troops conducting an ambush operation in Konduga Local Government Area encountered insurgents, resulting in the neutralization of two terrorists, with others fleeing the scene.
Operations against kidnapping syndicates also proved successful. In Edo State, soldiers killed three suspected kidnappers along the Ijon River area of Etsako West Local Government Area, recovering communication devices and other items. Meanwhile, in Benue State, troops deployed under Operation Whirl Stroke rescued five kidnapped victims during an intelligence-based patrol and arrested one suspected collaborator.
Security Raids Disrupt Logistics Networks Nationwide
Security operations extended to other parts of the country, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of items intended to support criminal activities. In Sokoto State, troops arrested 15 suspects and recovered nine motorcycles along with several jerrycans of fuel, believed to be destined for terrorist logistics.
Joint raids with other security agencies in Kaduna State resulted in the arrest of four suspects at identified criminal hideouts. In Delta State, troops apprehended four suspected armed robbers and six individuals alleged to be involved in drug peddling.
Additionally, in Zamfara State, soldiers intercepted an attempt to smuggle weapons, recovering an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and ammunition. Two suspects believed to be recipients of the weapons were arrested in the process.
Army Reiterates Commitment to National Security
The Nigerian Army has emphasized that these operations underscore its unwavering determination to safeguard communities and dismantle the networks of armed groups operating across Nigeria. In a statement, the military highlighted its resolute commitment to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation.
"These operational gains underscore the military's sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt criminal enterprises, and safeguard communities across the country," the Army stated. The military also urged members of the public to support ongoing security operations by providing credible information to relevant agencies.
Additional Success: Boko Haram/ISWAP Commander Eliminated
In a related development, troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) killed a commander of the Boko Haram/ISWAP sect, identified as Abu Yusu, the Munzir of Dursula, along with 19 other terrorists. This occurred during a series of raids on the Goniri community in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, further demonstrating the military's proactive stance against insurgency.
