Nigerian Troops Eliminate 31 Terrorists, Arrest 81 in Nationwide Operations

In a recent update from the Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian armed forces have achieved substantial success in the ongoing battle against terrorism. Over the course of the last week, they have neutralized 31 terrorists and apprehended 81 others during various operations spanning the North East, North Central, and North West regions of the country.

According to Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, these operations have resulted in the rescue of 10 kidnapped hostages and the voluntary surrender of 63 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and their families across multiple theatres of operation.

In the North East, Operation HADIN KAI conducted successful fighting patrols in Bama and Chibok local government areas of Borno, as well as Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe. During these missions, the troops recovered an impressive cache of weaponry, including 12 AK47 rifles, two locally fabricated rifles, and three dane guns, along with 181 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, four magazines, and three motorcycles. Moreover, they neutralized 13 terrorists, arrested 12, and rescued five kidnapped individuals.

Moving to the North Central region, Operation Safe Haven apprehended five suspects, recovered arms, ammunition, and 145 rustled cows during the week. Operation Whirl Stroke made a significant arrest on October 1 when they captured two IPOB/ESN criminals in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue, along with the recovery of body armor, bulletproof vests, and weaponry. In total, three suspects were arrested, and two locally fabricated rifles, 10 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, five cutlasses, one body armor, one bulletproof vest, and a jack-knife were confiscated.

In the North West, Operation Hadarin Daji neutralized six terrorists, arrested 12, and successfully rescued 33 kidnapped persons. The troops also recovered four AK47 rifles, two dane guns, 35 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, three motorcycles, five mobile phones, one cutlass, and five solar panels.

Operation Whirl Punch, elsewhere in the North West, eliminated one terrorist, seized three AK47 rifles, one AK47 magazine loaded with five rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 32 rounds of 7.62mm special, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm warheads, one cutlass, and various other items.

Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba emphasized the partnership between the armed forces and citizens in combating common enemies, which are terrorists and violent extremist groups. He reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to securing the country against insecurity and terrorism, ultimately aiming for national progress.