Emmanuel Daudu
The Nigerian Armed Forces have continued their resolute fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and crude oil theft across various regions of the country.
The weekly report of ongoing military operations showcases the significant strides made by the Armed Forces between 19 and 26 November 2024.
In a statement signed by the Director Defense Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba on Friday and made available to journalists in . Abuja said the operations were conducted under joint task forces and recorded substantial successes in neutralizing threats, rescuing hostages, and recovering illicit weapons and stolen resources.
Major Buba while expressing that troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained their offensive against Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists across Borno and Yobe States, he added that between 13 and 19 November, 53 individuals, including 13 male fighters, 9 women, and 31 children, surrendered to troops.
The Director Defense Media operations revealed that Troops neutralized 58 terrorists and arrested 42 collaborators in Borno and Yobe States.
“They also rescued 17 hostages and recovered 29 AK-47 rifles, 6 fabricated rifles, 514 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 16 motorcycles, and other items.”
He disclosed that in Plateau and Kaduna States, troops of Operation Safe Haven conducted successful arrest operations and offensive engagements.
“34 violent extremists, including a notorious gunrunner, were arrested in Barkin Ladi, Jos South, and Bassa LGAs of Plateau State.Troops rescued 28 hostages in Barkin Ladi and Zango Kataf LGAs.”
He further noted that Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke conducted counterterrorism operations in Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States, achieving significant results.
“36 hostages were freed in Zinna LGA of Taraba State. 25 extremists, including a notorious cult leader, were arrested.Troops seized 12 AK-47 rifles, 45 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, motorcycles, and mobile phones.” He said
The Armed Forces fight against banditry and terrorism in the North West recorded impressive victories
“59 terrorists were eliminated during operations in Kaduna, Zamfara, and Niger States. Precision airstrikes in Niger and Katsina States neutralized scores of terrorists and destroyed their weapon caches.Troops freed 34 captives and recovered over 28 AK-47 rifles, 927 rounds of ammunition, and ₦732,000.” Said Major General Buba
While noting that fforts to combat crude oil theft and kidnapping in the South South region yielded commendable results, he disclosed that Troops destroyed 82 illegal refining sites, recovering 909,800 liters of crude oil and 71,060 liters of illegally refined diesel.
He added that 3 kidnapped hostages were freed, 21 violent extremists were arrested and seizures included boats, outboard engines, motorcycles, and firearms.
Across all operations, the Nigerian Armed Forces demonstrated unwavering commitment to securing lives and properties.
The combined efforts of the task forces resulted in the neutralization of over 125 terrorists and extremists, the rescue of 118 hostages, and the recovery of substantial arms, ammunition, and illicit assets.
The Armed Forces remain dedicated to ensuring peace and security in Nigeria and call on citizens to support their efforts by providing timely and credible information about criminal activities.