Troops capture terrorists’ informants, rescue abducted victims
In a bold show of renewed strength and strategic coordination, the Nigerian Armed Forces—backed by hybrid units and security agencies—have launched intensified military operations across various regions of the country, aimed at neutralizing terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims, and dismantling criminal networks threatening national stability.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major-General Markus Kangye, said the operations, conducted between May 8 and May 15, were part of efforts to secure farmlands, ensure food security, and uphold national peace as mandated by President Bola Tinubu.
Maj.-Gen. Kangye reaffirmed the military’s unwavering resolve under the leadership of Gen. Christopher Musa, asserting that Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the welfare of its citizens are non-negotiable.
“We are not discussing compromises on national security,” Kangye said. “Our troops are taking the fight to the enemies, dismantling hideouts, and restoring peace in troubled areas.”
Among the key achievements during the weeklong operations was the arrest of two notorious terrorist collaborators—Zakari Abubakar and Aliyu Musa—in Suleja and Borgu areas of Niger State. Another major arrest was made in the Federal Capital Territory, where troops apprehended Rufai Abdullahi, a courier suspected of transporting ammunition for extremist groups.
The operations yielded significant recoveries including assorted arms and ammunition, motorcycles, tricycles, pumping and drilling machines, mobile phones, and vehicles—resources believed to be used in coordinated attacks and logistical support for insurgents.
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In the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai carried out aggressive patrols and raids in hotspots like Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, and Damboa in Borno State. These efforts led to the neutralization of dozens of terrorists, the rescue of 17 kidnapped civilians, and seizure of dangerous materials including hand grenades and loaded magazines.
Meanwhile, Operation Hadarin Daji in the North-West saw a remarkable breakthrough with the rescue of 129 kidnap victims across Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. Several terrorist enclaves were decimated during the operations.
In the oil-rich Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe troops struck a significant blow against oil thieves, foiling crude oil thefts valued at over ₦103 million. The seizures included nearly 69,000 litres of stolen crude oil, over 31,000 litres of illegally refined diesel, and more than 2,000 litres of diverted kerosene. The operation also led to the destruction of 18 illegal refining sites and recovery of dozens of drums, storage tanks, and boats used in illicit refining.
Kangye emphasized that community support and intelligence sharing played a crucial role in the success of the operations. He also praised the courage and professionalism of the troops, noting that their sacrifices are creating safe corridors for farmers to return to their land and contribute meaningfully to national food security.
“These collective efforts are gradually reclaiming the peace and restoring confidence among citizens, proving that no criminal network can outlast the resolve of a united force,” Kangye said.
As the military continues to advance its national security objectives, authorities are calling on citizens to maintain vigilance and support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
By PRNigeria
