Nigerian armed forces have achieved significant success in their ongoing battle against insurgency and criminal activities, with 43 terrorists eliminated and 115 others captured over the past week. Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, disclosed these remarkable developments in a recent statement from Abuja.
Underlining the military’s unwavering commitment, Buba emphasized the strategic operations carried out to root out terrorists from their hideouts. The focused efforts led to the neutralization of key terrorist leaders, disruption of their combat capabilities, and the arrest of numerous foot soldiers.
The operational activities encompassed a range of tactics, including ambushes, raids, fighting patrols, and other targeted offensives, resulting in the recovery of an arsenal of 87 assorted weapons and 666 ammunition items. The seized cache comprised a variety of firearms, including AK-47 rifles, FN rifles, pump action guns, locally fabricated firearms, dane guns, pistols, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Additionally, the troops confiscated communication equipment, cash, and various modes of transportation utilized by the criminal elements.
Moving beyond counter-terrorism efforts, the troops also demonstrated their versatility by cracking down on oil theft in the South-South region. Their intervention led to the arrest of 17 individuals involved in this illicit activity, along with the rescue of 39 hostages. Seizing the stolen crude oil, destroying illegal refining sites, and dismantling related infrastructure reflected the comprehensive approach adopted by the military to tackle economic sabotage and criminality in the area.
Major General Buba reinforced the military’s unwavering resolve to overcome the scourge of terrorism and criminality, urging the public to support and cooperate in the collective pursuit of a secure and prosperous nation. He stressed the vital role of citizens in complementing the military’s efforts and creating an environment conducive to achieving definitive victory.
These developments underscore the Nigerian military’s dedication to safeguarding the nation’s security and well-being, showcasing their relentless pursuit of peace and stability.