Military Operations Lead to Significant Gains Against Terrorists and Oil Thieves
In a recent update, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) revealed that troops have made significant strides in their operations against terrorists and oil thieves across the country. According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, troops eliminated 106 terrorists, apprehended 164 others, and rescued 103 hostages in various operations within the last week.
The military recovered a substantial amount of weapons and ammunition, including 125 assorted weapons, 1,522 ammunition, and various rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 7.62mm NATO, and 7.62 x 54mm. Additionally, troops seized 22 AK47 magazines, one Baofeng radio, 22 vehicles, 31 motorcycles, two bicycles, 10 mobile phones, and the sum of N2.9 million.
In the North East, Operation Hadin Kai recorded successes, leading to the surrender of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and their families. A total of 1,760 BH/ISWAP terrorist fighters and family members surrendered, with troops neutralizing 41 terrorists, arresting 27 suspects, and rescuing 16 kidnapped hostages.
In the North Central, Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke eliminated 12 insurgents, arrested 39 violent extremists, and rescued 39 kidnapped hostages. In the North West, Operation Hadarin Daji neutralized 22 terrorists, arrested 23 terrorists, and rescued 32 kidnapped hostages.
In the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe maintained momentum against crude oil thieves, destroying several illegal refining sites and recovering stolen products. Troops recovered 802,200 litres of stolen crude oil, 121,900 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 450 litres of DPK. They also discovered and destroyed 20 dugout pits, 24 boats, and 34 storage tanks, as well as recovered 56 cooking ovens, two speedboats, 14 pumping machines, 18 drums, 22 vehicles, and motorcycles.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA neutralized three terrorists, arrested 22 violent extremists, and rescued four kidnapped hostages. All recovered items, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.
These significant gains demonstrate the military’s commitment to combating terrorism and oil theft, and their efforts will undoubtedly contribute to a safer and more secure environment for all citizens.