The Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified their counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations nationwide, focusing on dismantling not only terrorist groups but also their networks of collaborators and informants.
In a statement signed by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba said notable successes include the neutralization of a notorious terrorist commander, Abu Mosaje, in Plateau State, and the arrest of a wanted kidnap kingpin, Babangida Gora Usman, in Kaduna State.
Additionally, the troops apprehended Timothy Yusuf and his son, both identified as gun runners, and arrested seven members of the IPOB/ESN, including a notorious kidnapper in Enugu and Imo States.
During the week, military operations resulted in the neutralization of 79 terrorists and the arrest of 224 individuals, including 28 involved in oil theft. Troops successfully rescued 67 kidnapped hostages and thwarted oil theft operations valued at approximately N747 million. They also discovered and destroyed numerous illegal refining sites and equipment, including 215 crude oil cooking ovens and 62 storage tanks, alongside recovering significant quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined products.
In total, the military recovered 104 assorted weapons and nearly 2,000 rounds of ammunition across various operational theaters. The breakdown of recovered arms includes AK47 rifles, fabricated rifles, and explosives. The Defence Headquarters has stated that the Armed Forces remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens by persistently targeting and dismantling terrorist operations throughout the country.
