In an impressive display of their commitment to national security, the Nigerian armed forces have accomplished remarkable feats over the past two weeks. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, shared these accomplishments during a bi-weekly news briefing in Abuja.
During these operations, troops engaged and neutralized 39 terrorists, arresting an additional 159 individuals linked to these extremist groups. The bravery and determination of the armed forces also led to the successful rescue of 109 hostages held captive by these terrorists.
One such operation took place in the Gwoza and Tarmuwa Local Government Areas of Borno and Yobe, where the troops of Operation Hadin Kai orchestrated a successful ambush and apprehended Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. This tactical maneuver resulted in the surrender of some terrorists in the Gwoza area, while others were eliminated. The operation also led to the recovery of arms, ammunition, and the safe return of hostages.
In another operation, 11 terrorists were neutralized, 45 were captured, and 34 hostages were rescued by the dedicated troops. The recovery of a substantial cache of arms and ammunition further showcased the prowess of the armed forces.
The seized items included six AK47 rifles, one HK21 gun, one GPMG, one fabricated gun, 11 AK47 magazines, and 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. Additionally, 17 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, one bandolier, and seven empty cases of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered. Alongside these weapons, troops also secured five motorcycles, eight mobile phones, and the sum of N368, 950.
The air component of these operations was equally active, as they successfully targeted terrorists’ hideouts in Wulde, Borno. This air engagement resulted in substantial damage to the terrorists’ enclaves.
Moving to the North Central region, troops participating in Operation Safe Haven carried out a decisive operation that resulted in the neutralization of two gunmen, the rescue of three hostages, and the apprehension of 15 crime suspects. Notably, two suspects were arrested in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, with one of them being a notorious armed robber on a security agency’s wanted list. During this operation, the troops also seized a significant amount of firearms and ammunition.
In another critical operation by Operation Whirl Stroke in the North Central region, a member of a notorious violent extremist group was apprehended in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. Furthermore, the operation led to the neutralization of terrorists and the successful rescue of six hostages.
The Northwest region saw significant achievements by the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji. This operation resulted in the neutralization of 12 terrorists, the capture of 33 others, and the rescue of 40 hostages. The recovery of three AK47 rifles, 18 motorcycles, and three mobile phones added to the success of the operation.
Additionally, the air component of the military conducted an interdiction of terrorists at Sububu Forest in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, effectively degrading the terrorists’ capabilities in that location.
These recent successes serve as a testament to the dedication, skill, and courage of the Nigerian armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s security and combating terrorism. The impact of these operations is expected to resonate positively across the regions, providing renewed hope and a sense of security for all citizens.
