Nigerian Military Neutralizes Terrorists, Recovers 21 Vehicles, 23 Boats, 52 Drums
In a sweeping offensive across the country’s troubled regions, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified joint operations that led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, arrest of 76 criminal suspects, and recovery of large quantities of weapons, vehicles, and petroleum products.
This was disclosed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, during a press briefing on the military’s weekly operational update ending 20 June 2025.
He stated that the multi-theatre operations under various joint task forces — spanning the North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-East, South-South, and beyond — were part of a renewed strategic push to rid Nigeria of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and oil theft.
“Our troops have demonstrated uncommon bravery and professionalism across all fronts. Within the week in review, they arrested 76 suspects, recovered 23 boats, 21 vehicles, 28,495 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 221,170 litres of stolen crude oil,” Kangye announced.
In the Niger Delta, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE dismantled 16 illegal refining sites and intercepted 28,495 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 3,140 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and 221,170 litres of stolen crude oil.
Also recovered during the anti-oil theft sweep were 46 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 44 storage tanks, 52 drums, 23 boats, and 21 vehicles. The troops further confiscated outboard engines, pumping and drilling machines, horses, tricycles, mobile phones, and arrested 27 suspects.
Read Also:
Under Operation HADIN KAI, troops conducted raids in Konduga, Gwoza, Kala Balge, Ngala, Bama and Kukawa in Borno State, eliminating terrorists and arresting four others. Two kidnapped civilians were rescued, while large caches of arms, IED-making materials, motorcycles, and food supplies were seized.
Additionally, scores of ISWAP and Boko Haram members, including women and children, surrendered to the troops between 12 and 19 June.
In a significant breakthrough, seven terror collaborators and logistics suppliers were also apprehended in Gwoza, Biu, Ngala, and Kaga LGAs.
Troops under Operation FASAN YAMMA engaged terrorists in fighting patrols across Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States. Three terrorists were arrested and several others killed. Three kidnapped victims were freed, while troops recovered weapons and ammunition.
Notably, 19 hostages were unconditionally released by surrendering ISWAP fighters in Danmusa LGA of Katsina State as the military’s non-kinetic measures gained momentum.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN and Operation WHIRL STROKE carried out coordinated raids in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Nasarawa, and Kogi States.
In Plateau’s Riyom, Bassa and Jos North LGAs, extremists were neutralised, five hostages were rescued, and five suspects arrested. In Kaduna’s Sanga and Zangon Kataf LGAs, six suspected kidnappers were also nabbed.
Further south, in Benue’s Gwer East and Taraba’s Takum LGAs, troops killed extremists and recovered their arms. Although some terrorists fled before troops arrived in other parts of Benue, troops have dominated the area to prevent fresh attacks.
Six additional criminals were arrested in Nasarawa and Kogi States, with weapons, mobile phones, and other materials recovered.
Under Operation UDO KA, troops stormed extremist camps in Imo, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi States. Five fighters were killed during engagements in Orlu, Okigwe, Ihiala and Onitsha, while two others were arrested.
Seven additional suspects were arrested in Isiala Ngwa (Abia) and Ihiala (Anambra), and weapons and ammunition were recovered.
Reassuring the nation, Major General Kangye emphasized that the Armed Forces remain focused, professional, and committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and internal stability.
“These results were possible due to the bravery of our troops and cooperation of some communities. We urge citizens to continue supporting our efforts by sharing credible information,” he said.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its transparency in keeping the public informed, and called for sustained trust and collaboration from Nigerians to defeat the nation’s security threats.
By PRNigeria
