The Nigerian Army has announced a significant blow against criminal networks across the country, following a series of intensive three-day operations. Military authorities reported that the coordinated raids resulted in the death of eight suspected terrorists, the arrest of fifty-one individuals, and the successful rescue of twenty-seven victims.
Nationwide Crackdown on Insurgents and Kidnappers
From November 29 to December 1, 2025, troops conducted simultaneous missions in the North East, North Central, North West, and South-South regions. The operations targeted a broad spectrum of threats, including insurgents, kidnappers, gunrunners, and illegal miners.
In Borno State, a known hotspot for jihadist activity, soldiers from the 151 and 152 Task Force Battalions, alongside the 192 Battalion, executed ambush and clearance missions. These engagements around the Chibok area led to the death of four fighters affiliated with ISWAP and Boko Haram. The troops recovered rifles, assorted ammunition, and communication devices from the scene.
Across the North Central and North West, security forces successfully rescued twenty kidnap victims in states including Plateau, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, Kaduna, and Delta. Among those freed were women and a minor during operations in Tsanyawa, Kankia, Zaki-Biam, Panyam, and Yagba West. Numerous arrests were made, including suspected kidnappers, human traffickers, extremist collaborators, and illegal miners.
Major Arms Haul and Drug Network Busts
A critical interception occurred in Kaduna State, where soldiers stopped vehicles transporting a massive cache of explosives. The seizure included 5,000 kilogrammes of gelatine explosives, 3,000 metres of cordtex fuse, 10 electric detonators, and 1,000 metres of connecting wire. Investigations are ongoing to trace the intended destination and potential links to armed groups.
In a related breakthrough, troops arrested a suspected gunrunner identified as Shuaibu Isah, alias "Alhaji". He was allegedly attempting to collect 1,000 rounds of ammunition from accomplices who remain at large. Military officials hailed this arrest as a major success in curbing the flow of illicit arms.
Further successes were recorded in the South-South, where joint raids with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) led to the arrest of 25 suspects connected to drug distribution networks in Bayelsa and Rivers states. Anti-oil theft operations also dismantled an illegal refining site containing about 1,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
Restoring Order in Communal Flashpoints
The military's push also addressed communal violence and banditry. In Taraba State, soldiers responding to clashes in Karim Lamido killed four armed men and confiscated locally fabricated weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles. In Delta State, troops arrested suspected cultists and seized a pistol, cartridges, and mobile phones.
In a move supporting agrarian communities, troops in Plateau State recovered 76 rustled cattle and returned them to their rightful owners. This action is part of a broader strategy to tackle banditry that severely affects farmers and local economies.
These latest operations follow the Defence Headquarters' recent pledge to intensify counter-terrorism efforts, particularly after attacks in the North West and deadly communal clashes in Plateau. The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment, stating that terrorists and their collaborators "will find no safe haven anywhere in the country." The military vows to sustain pressure on all criminal groups across every theatre of operation.
