Nigerian Military Eliminates 52 Terrorists, Apprehends 60, and Rescues 61 Hostages in Recent Operations

In a significant display of strength and determination, the Nigerian armed forces have conducted successful operations between September 15 and September 22, resulting in the elimination of 52 terrorists, the apprehension of 60 others, and the rescue of 61 kidnapped hostages. This achievement was confirmed by Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, in a statement released on Friday in Abuja.

During these operations, seven terrorists voluntarily surrendered to the troops, comprising five adult males and two adult females. Additionally, the Nigerian armed forces managed to recover a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition, which included 53 AK47 rifles, 18 locally fabricated rifles, one beretta pistol, and three pump-action guns. The ammunition haul included 650 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and two rounds of 9mm ammo, among others.

Furthermore, the troops seized 15 vehicles, 12 motorcycles, 12 bicycles, and various items such as mobile phones, cutlasses, generator sets, and gas cylinders. The recovery also extended to livestock and a sum of N602,000 in cash, along with N8,000 worth of Airtel airtime.

In another operation targeting oil thieves in the South-South region, the Nigerian military managed to deny these criminals an estimated N946.38 million in seized assets. They confiscated 496,250 liters of stolen crude oil, 83,400 liters of illegally refined AGO, and 1,200 liters of PMS. Additionally, the troops secured four pumping machines, five speedboats, and various storage tanks and equipment used in illegal activities.

Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to tackling terrorist and violent extremist groups across the nation. He confirmed that the military would persist with aggressive operations until these groups were brought to submission.

The operations were not confined to one region; they spanned across different theaters. Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, Operation Hadarun Daji, Operation Safe Haven, Operation Whirl Punch, and Operation Whirl Stroke carried out a range of activities, including ambushes, raids, rescue operations, fighting patrols, and cordon and search operations.

The Nigerian military continues to enhance its efforts to ensure the safety and security of citizens, and they encourage the public to provide information that can aid in these efforts.