The Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded major operational successes across the country, including the rescue of abducted victims, arrest of suspected terrorists and collaborators, and disruption of criminal networks involved in terrorism, kidnapping and oil theft.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this during a briefing in Abuja, saying troops across various theatres had sustained pressure on criminal groups through intelligence-driven operations.
In the North East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai intensified attacks against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) remnants.
The operations led to the surrender of 10 family members of terrorists in Gwoza and Pulka, as well as the arrest of suspected collaborators, logistics suppliers and a suspected foreign spy in Borno State.
Among those arrested was Ali Umar, who reportedly admitted to supplying petroleum products to terrorist groups.
The military also disrupted attempted infiltrations around Muna Garage, Shuwari village and the Ajilari axis of Jere Local Government Area, recovering a terrorist’s body during follow-up operations.
Several abducted persons were rescued, including Usman Hassan, who was kidnapped in Bauchi State, and Aisha Mohammed alongside six others rescued near Armuda Bridge in Gwoza.
In the North West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma continued offensive operations against terrorists and their networks in Zamfara and Kebbi states, arresting suspects, neutralising three terrorists, rescuing 13 victims and recovering two vehicles linked to attacks on commuters.
Under Operation Savannah Shield in the North Central, the troops rescued four kidnap victims in Niger and Kwara states, while recovering weapons including an AK-47 rifle, magazines and a Dane gun.
Security forces under Operation Enduring Peace also intercepted suspected arms traffickers in Kaduna State, recovering locally fabricated rifles and sub-machine guns.
The troops further arrested a wanted suspect connected to attacks in Plateau State and rescued victims following a highway attack.
In the region covered by Operation Whirl Stroke, soldiers intercepted an ammunition courier carrying 60 rounds of ammunition and arrested four suspected terrorist collaborators.
They also rescued a school principal, a NECO official and two students abducted during an attack on an examination centre in Kogi State.
In the South-South, Operation Delta Safe troops uncovered illegal refining facilities in Rivers State, recovering stolen crude oil and dismantling equipment used for illicit activities.
In Edo State, troops neutralised two kidnappers, recovered weapons and rescued three abducted persons.
Meanwhile, troops under Operation Udo Ka in the South East arrested suspected kidnappers and members of a proscribed group, recovering firearms and ammunition.
They also rescued two victims after intercepting a hijacked truck along the Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their efforts and praised the intelligence collaboration that led to the successful rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.
The Defence Headquarters said military operations would continue nationwide until lasting peace and security are achieved.
