Troops Arrest 74 Suspected Terrorists, Rescue 318 Kidnap Victims as Customs Seize Millions in Smuggled Fuel

The Defence Headquarters announced that security forces operating nationwide arrested 74 suspected terrorists and collaborators in November and freed 318 people held captive in various kidnap enclaves. Twenty-five individuals linked to oil theft were also detained in the South-South, while 69 terrorists and family members surrendered to troops in the Northeast.

Director of Defence Media Operations Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja said the month’s operations disrupted major crude-theft networks. Troops intercepted crude and diesel valued at more than N217 million and shut down 16 illegal refining sites.

In a separate development, the Nigeria Customs Service reported a sweeping clampdown on fuel smugglers in Adamawa State. The agency’s Operation Whirlwind unit seized petrol worth over N181 million in 55 incidents across border routes. The confiscated products included more than 284,000 litres of fuel packed in thousands of jerrycans, over 11,000 litres found in a filling station, and 485 drums intended for onward movement to neighbouring countries. Two large wooden boats used to ferry the contraband were also taken.

Operation Whirlwind National Coordinator ACG Kolapo Oladeji, speaking in Yola, warned that the crackdown on smugglers would intensify. He described fuel smuggling as an assault on the nation’s economy and condemned continued attacks on Customs personnel carrying out enforcement duties.