Security: Troops Thwart Terrorist Activities, Rescue Kidnap Victims

Nigerian troops have terminated 115 terrorists, arrested 289 suspects, and rescued 138 kidnap victims in the past week.

This was disclosed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, at a press briefing.

He said the military also thwarted oil theft worth ₦921.84million and dismantled extensive illegal refining operations as part of its robust nationwide campaigns.

The Directors of Defence Media Operations noted that in the Southeastern part of Nigeria, the Troops eliminated six terrorists, arrested 13 suspects, rescued one hostage and recovered items including five AK-47 rifles, eight pump-action guns, and fabricated hand grenades.

In the North-East, according to him, Operations in Borno and Yobe States led to the neutralization of 61 terrorists, the arrest of 34 suspects, and the rescue of 32 hostages with the recovery of 17 AK-47 rifles, PKT guns, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

Maj. Gen. Buba said military engagements in the North-West resulted in the termination of 28 terrorists, arrest of 77, rescue of 57 hostages and seizure of 16 AK-47 rifles, explosives, and over ₦7.2million.

Likewise in the North-Central,  Security forces arrested 27 individuals, rescued 40 hostages

and seized arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and mobile phones during offensive operations in Plateau and Kaduna states.

Similarly in the Niger Delta, he said Operation Delta Safe tackled economic sabotage, resulting in the destruction of 56 illegal refining sites and 78 crude oil cooking ovens, recovery of 872,070 liters of stolen crude oil and 67,985 liters of illegally refined diesel, arrest of 40 suspects and seizure of boats, speedboats, and storage tanks.

The Major General further disclosed that Troops engaged in air interdiction operations against terrorist strongholds in Katsina and Zamfara states, resulting in significant enemy losses.

General Buba reiterated the military’s determination to create a safer environment for citizens while acknowledging the sacrifices made by troops in the fight against terrorism and economic sabotage.

“The military remains mission-focused and committed to defeating threats across the country,” Maj. Gen. Buba said.

“We strive to minimize casualties while upholding our duty to protect lives and property,” he added.