In a decisive three-day military campaign, the Nigerian Army has delivered a significant blow to terror and criminal networks operating across the country. From November 29 to December 1, 2025, coordinated operations led to the neutralisation of eight terrorists, the arrest of fifty-one suspects, and the successful rescue of twenty-seven abducted victims.
The offensive, which spanned several states, also resulted in the seizure of a substantial arsenal of weapons, explosives, and other illicit materials. This sweeping action underscores the military's intensified resolve to dismantle enclaves used by insurgents, kidnappers, and other criminal elements threatening national security.
Operations Across the North East and North Central
In Borno State, troops from the 151 Task Force Battalion, 152 Task Force Battalion, and 192 Battalion engaged Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'adati wal-Jihad (JAS) fighters during ambush and clearance missions. Four terrorists were neutralised in these encounters.
The operations yielded a significant haul of arms, including three AK-47 rifles, four magazines loaded with 70 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and hundreds of rounds of other calibres. A Baofeng radio was also recovered, highlighting attempts by the groups to maintain communication. While repelling infiltration attempts around Chibok, no victims were rescued in this theatre.
Meanwhile, under Operation WHIRL STROKE and Operation ENDURING PEACE, troops secured the rescue of twenty kidnapped victims across Plateau, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States. The rescues occurred in locations such as Panyam, Zaki-Biam, Tsanyawa, and Isoko North, offering relief to families and communities.
Arrests, Clashes, and Anti-Oil Theft Efforts
The nationwide crackdown led to numerous arrests. Security forces apprehended two kidnappers in Panyam, four human traffickers in Sardauna, and three extremist collaborators in Ukum. In a separate operation in Lau, thirteen illegal miners were taken into custody.
Violence was not limited to the North East. In Taraba State, troops neutralised four violent extremists during a communal clash in Karim Lamido, recovering firearms and motorcycles. In Delta State, two suspected cultists were arrested with a locally made pistol and other items.
In the South-South region, the military focused on economic sabotage, shutting down an illegal oil refining site containing about 1,000 litres of stolen crude oil. A joint raid with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) also led to the arrest of twenty-five drug-related suspects in Bayelsa and Rivers States.
Major Breakthroughs and a Stern Warning
One of the most critical successes was the arrest of a notorious gunrunner, Shuaibu Isah, also known as Alhaji. He was captured while attempting to receive a consignment of 1,000 rounds of ammunition; his accomplices are currently being pursued.
In a highly significant interception in Kaduna State, troops stopped vehicles transporting a massive cache of explosives, including 5,000kg of gelatine, 3,000 metres of detonating cord, and electric detonators. This seizure likely prevented a series of devastating attacks, and investigations are ongoing.
The Nigerian Army, in a statement, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to national security: “The Nigerian Army reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians and ensuring that terrorists, criminals and their collaborators have no safe haven.” This message follows the military's recent declaration that terrorist commander Bello Turji is a "dead man walking," dismissing his threats against communities in Zamfara State.
The series of operations demonstrate a coordinated, multi-front approach by the Nigerian military to address diverse security challenges, from terrorism and kidnapping to oil theft and arms proliferation, within a short, impactful timeframe.
