The Nigerian Armed Forces have made significant progress in their operations against terrorist and criminal groups in the country. As of September 22, 2023, they have neutralized 52 terrorists, arrested 53 criminals and 7 suspected oil thieves, and successfully rescued 61 kidnapped hostages.
Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism in Nigeria. He stated, “The Armed Forces will continue with aggressive operations to bring these groups to justice,” affirming their determination to maintain the safety and security of the nation.
During their operations, the military also saw 7 terrorists, consisting of 5 adult males and 1 adult female, surrender to the troops. This surrender is a testament to the effectiveness of the military’s efforts in eradicating terrorism.
In the North East region of Nigeria, the troops of Operation HADIN KAI carried out successful operations that resulted in the neutralization of terrorists, rescue of hostages, and the surrender of terrorist combatants. They also recovered a significant amount of arms and ammunition. The troops utilized various tactics such as ambushes, raids, rescue operations, fighting patrols, attacks, and cordon and search activities to combat the terrorist threat.
In the North Central region, the Joint Task Force Operation HADARIN DAJI conducted operations that included the rescue of kidnap victims in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara, artillery missions against terrorists massing up in the forest, arrest of terrorist collaborators, and offensive activities to disrupt the freedom of action of terrorists.
Operation SAFE HAVEN, on the other hand, focused on raids and arrests of terrorists in Afana village in Zangon Kataf LGA of Kaduna State. They also apprehended cattle rustlers in Dogo Nahawa Bush Jos South, Bokkos, and Mangu LGAs of Plateau State, recovered weapons at Kulben village in Mangu LGA, and conducted various other operations to ensure the safety of the region.
Operation WIRL STROKE, in Benue State, conducted 22 operations, including fighting patrols, confidence-building patrols, and raid operations. These operations took place in Mbaayande, Mbamazu, and Mbaagudu villages of Konshiga LGA. Additionally, a fighting patrol was carried out in Logo LGA, and arrests were made around Okpokwu LGA, leading to the disruption of illegal activities.
In the South East region, troops of Joint Task Force Operations UDO KA and Operation SEARCH AND FLUSH remained steadfast in their fight against insecurity. They responded to distress calls, foiled kidnappers’ activities in Okigwe LGA of Imo State, conducted fighting patrols in Isu Onicha and Onicha LGA of Ebonyi State, and apprehended 5 suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists in Ikwo and Ihiala LGAs of Ebonyi and Anambra States, respectively. The troops also conducted raid operations on IPOB/ESN camps in Ohafia LGA of Abia State, resulting in the recovery of an improvised 16 MBRL gun mounted on a vehicle along with other arms and ammunition.
Unfortunately, a joint patrol team of Operation SEARCH AND FLUSH (SAR) faced an ambush by members of the Proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliated Eastern Security Network (ESN) while responding to a distress call in Ehime Mbano LGA of Imo State. Despite this setback, the troops remain resolute in their mission to restore peace and security.
Meanwhile, in the South-South region, Operation DELTA SAFE successfully prevented oil theft amounting to an estimated sum of N946,387,570.00. They recovered 496,250 litres of stolen crude oil, 83,400 litres of illegally refined AGO, 1,200 litres of PMS, and various equipment used in illegal activities. The troops also seized 77 weapons, including rifles and pistols, along with a significant quantity of ammunition.
The military’s operations continue to improve security and ensure the safety of citizens. Major General Buba encourages the public to play an active role by providing information to the military. He said, “Citizens are encouraged to ‘know something, say something, and let the military do something about it’.”
The Nigerian Armed Forces remain committed to their mission to protect the nation and will continue their operations to eliminate terrorist threats and maintain peace and stability.
