Troops engaged in internal security operations across Nigeria have killed several terrorists, arrested criminal collaborators, and recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition as part of an intensified onslaught against non-state actors nationwide.
In the past week, military operations conducted across five geopolitical zones also led to the rescue of dozens of kidnap victims, the destruction of illegal oil-refining sites, and the seizure of large volumes of stolen crude oil.
The update was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja.
North East Operations
In the North East, where troops continue to battle Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) fighters, several terrorists were neutralised, weapons were recovered, and three kidnapped victims were rescued.
According to the statement, troops successfully repelled an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, dealing a significant blow to the group’s operational capacity. The terrorists attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), but were detected early and neutralised before gaining access.
“The operation led to multiple terrorist casualties and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and logistics,” the statement said.
Troops also discovered and safely detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Damboa–Komala axis, ensuring the safety of commuters. Additionally, a Lagos-registered vehicle conveying suspected logistics supplies for terrorists was intercepted along the Maiduguri–Bama Road, leading to the arrest of two suspects. Seven collaborators and informants were also apprehended.
North West Theatre
Between December 12 and 17, troops carried out offensive operations across parts of Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Niger States. During the operations, several terrorists were killed, eight suspects arrested, and four kidnap victims rescued. Weapons, vehicles, livestock, and household items were also recovered.
Earlier, on December 3, troops intercepted two individuals at Kadage in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State carrying ₦9 million, allegedly intended as ransom to secure the release of six abducted children. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the kidnapping.
North Central and Surrounding States
Troops under Operation Enduring Peace conducted operations between December 13 and 18 in parts of Plateau and Kaduna States, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists, the arrest of 16 suspects, and the rescue of 19 kidnap victims.
Similarly, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE carried out raids on kidnappers’ hideouts across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, and Kwara States, arresting eight suspected kidnappers and rescuing 43 kidnapped victims. Arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and other items were recovered during the operations.
Anti–Oil Theft Operations
In the Operation DELTA SAFE theatre, covering Bayelsa, Delta, Imo, and Rivers States, troops foiled oil theft estimated at over ₦15.69 million during the week.
The military recovered 652,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,510 litres of diesel, and 2,015 litres of petrol. Three illegal refining sites were destroyed, while five oil thieves were arrested.
Further air and ground operations conducted between December 13 and 17 in parts of Bayelsa and Rivers States led to the arrest of nine criminal suspects, including three suspected gunrunners found in possession of arms and ammunition. All suspects are currently in custody for further investigation.
