Nigerian Army Operations Strike Hard, 16 Kidnap Victims Rescued, 25 Criminal Suspects In Custody, Terrorists Neutralized

Nigerian Army Operations Strike Hard, 16 Kidnap Victims Rescued, 25 Criminal Suspects In Custody, Terrorists Neutralized

Troops of the Nigerian Army have continued to record major operational breakthrough across the country, with the rescue of 16 kidnap victims, arrest of 25 criminal suspects, neutralization of terrorists and recovery of significant weapons and logistics within the last few days.

In Borno and Adamawa States, troops neutralized ISWAP/JAS terrorists at Kolori, Karumi in Konduga LGA and Madagali LGA. A suspected terrorist logistics supplier was also arrested in Mafa LGA with 23 containers of petrol concealed in a bag, while troops in MUBI NORTH intercepted smuggled petrol and fertilizers. In Garkida, a terrorist who confessed to participating in past attacks in Damboa LGA was apprehended. Additionally, weapons recovered in the theatre include one M70AB2 Rifle, four magazines, and 150 rounds of 7.62mm NATO.

In the North West, troops of 1 Brigade in ZAMFARA State foiled multiple terrorist attempts in Maradun, Tsafe and Anka LGAs, rescuing 6 kidnapped victims and seizing motorcycles from fleeing criminals. Operations continued to dominate the general area, denying terrorists freedom of action. In Kaduna State, troops arrested a notorious kidnap kingpin at Mayir Village in Sanga LGA following credible intelligence.

In the North Central, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue State, neutralized a violent extremist during a pursuit in Katsina-Ala LGA and rescued 10 passengers abducted along the Kyado–Wukari road. In Kwara State, troops rescued three kidnap victims near Eruku Town, recovering a motorcycle. In Nasarawa, troops intercepted a vehicle conveying illicit drugs, leading to the arrest of two suspects including the identified consignee.

In Imo State, troops arrested two cultists at Mgbidi, recovering a pistol, mobile phones and a motorcycle. In Anambra State, troops foiled IPOB/ESN activities at Orumba North where criminals detonated three IEDs before fleeing. The explosives and associated materials, including wires, batteries and cylinders, were safely disposed.

In Delta and Bayelsa States, troops recovered two locally made double-barrel guns, 27 cartridges and arrested multiple drug dealers in collaboration with the NDLEA. In Rivers and Bayelsa, over 1,200 litres of illegally refined AGO and crude oil were seized and handled in line with Operation DELTA SAFE directives. A total of 19 drug suspects were also arrested with cannabis, tramadol, pentazocine, diazepam, and Canadian loud. Meanwhile, four suspected kidnappers were apprehended in Oshimili North LGA of Delta State.

In Kwara State, troops foiled an attempted kidnapping on the outskirts of ERUKU Town in EKITI LGA, rescuing three victims and recovering a motorcycle.

Overall, arms and logistics recovered across the operations include: one M70AB2 Rifle, four magazines, 150 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, two double-barrel guns, 27 cartridges, one pistol, motorcycles, improvised explosive devices, petrol, fertilizers, mobile phones and large quantities of illicit drugs.

The Nigerian Army reaffirms that terrorists and criminals, no matter how they disguise or where they hide, will continue to face devastating consequences. The NA remains unyielding in its resolve to safeguard law-abiding citizens, protect communities and create secure conditions for agricultural activities and economic growth, in line with the Federal Government’s drive for food security.