The Nigerian Army has announced the neutralisation of nine terrorists, the arrest of eight criminal suspects, and the rescue of 37 kidnapped victims during a series of coordinated operations across the country.
A credible source at the Army Headquarters disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), noting that the operations recorded significant successes across multiple theatres nationwide.
According to the source, troops of the 151 Task Force Battalion ambushed ISWAP/JAS terrorists at Dipchari, in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, killing five insurgents during a fierce exchange of fire.
Similarly, troops of the 148 Battalion, operating along the Ekiti–Kogi border, neutralised two terrorists and recovered two AK-47 rifles.
In a separate encounter, troops of the 3rd Battalion successfully repelled a major terrorist attack on their base, killing one insurgent and forcing others to flee with gunshot injuries.
“Across Borno, Katsina, Imo, and Plateau States, troops apprehended eight suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and arms trafficking,” the source said.
The suspects include an ISWAP logistics courier, a terrorist collaborator, a wanted IPOB/ESN kingpin, and a gunrunner.
Recovered items include assorted firearms, ammunition, and several motorcycles used for criminal activities.
The source added that ongoing clearance operations across various regions led to the rescue of 37 kidnapped victims in Kaduna, Taraba, Plateau, Delta, and Kebbi States.
“Notably, 28 hostages, including a pregnant woman who gave birth during the operation, were freed in Sakaba, Kebbi State,” he said.
In the South-South region, troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade and Operation DELTA SAFE uncovered and destroyed multiple illegal oil refining sites in Imo State, seizing more than 20,000 litres of stolen crude and refined petroleum products.
The Army Headquarters commended the synergy among security agencies and local vigilante groups, describing their cooperation as vital to the recent operational successes.
The source reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to securing the nation and supporting economic stability, particularly in alignment with the Federal Government’s food security agenda.
