By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with Hybrid Forces and various security agencies, have intensified military operations across the country through both kinetic and non-kinetic means, resulting in significant operational successes in the past week.
According to a statement on Friday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, in Abuja dozens of terrorists, bandits, and members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, Eastern Security Network (ESN), were neutralized. Several others were arrested or forced to surrender due to overwhelming military pressure.
Operation DELTA SAFE: Major Blow to Oil Thieves
In the South-South region, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft operations worth an estimated ₦263.8 million. Troops recovered 198,482 litres of stolen crude oil, 63,846 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 947 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Additionally, troops discovered and destroyed 24 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 15 illegal refining sites, and seized nine boats, 21 drums, and 19 storage tanks. Eight oil thieves were arrested, and assorted arms, ammunition, explosives, vehicles, and other criminal tools were recovered during operations in Delta and Bayelsa states.
Operation HADIN KAI: Terrorists Neutralized, Commander Surrenders
In the Northeast, troops of Operation HADIN KAI launched multiple offensives in Sambisa Forest, Platari, and the Timbuktu Triangle from July 4 to 9. These operations led to the elimination of numerous Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists. Notably, a high-profile terrorist commander, identified as Ibn Ali, surrendered with his weapons and ammunition in Bama, Borno State.
Operations in other parts of Borno and Adamawa states led to the arrest of five terrorist collaborators, rescue of four kidnapped victims, recovery of weapons, explosives, and ₦822,500 in cash. Troops also safely detonated several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Operation FANSAN YAMMA: Airstrikes Hit Terrorist Strongholds
In the Northwest, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, supported by ground troops, launched major strikes on terrorist hideouts in Jam-Gemu, Maskekari, Yarbuga, and Kinduntu in Zamfara State on July 10. Scores of terrorist leaders and fighters were killed.
Ground forces also engaged terrorists in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Katsina states, leading to the elimination of several militants, arrest of five suspects, and rescue of two hostages. Recovered items included arms, motorcycles, and cash totaling ₦28,720. Several terrorist camps were also destroyed.
Operation SAFE HAVEN: Arms Recovered, Kidnapped Victims Rescued
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN operating in Plateau and Kaduna states responded to multiple distress calls and offensive engagements from June 30 to July 8. During the operations, troops neutralized extremists, arrested 18 suspects, and rescued seven kidnapped victims.
A militia operative was also intercepted while attempting an ambush along the Kafi-Abu-Rakwok road in Barkin Ladi LGA. He was found in possession of a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Operation WHIRL STROKE: Extremist Kingpin Nabbed
In the North-Central region, troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE carried out successful operations across Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, and parts of the FCT. Several extremists were eliminated, and eight others were arrested. Two kidnapped victims were rescued, and arms and ammunition were recovered.
A notorious extremist kingpin, Liamdoo Douglas Adekpe (aka Bajor), was arrested in Takum LGA of Taraba State. Troops recovered a cache of weapons and other dangerous items in his possession.
Operation UDO KA: IPOB/ESN Network Dismantled
In the Southeast, Operation UDO KA troops maintained pressure on IPOB/ESN elements. Following the arrest of a POS vendor on June 26, investigations led to the capture of a logistics supplier and sponsor of the Mother Valley camp in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State. Recovered items included POS machines, mobile phones, and ₦250,600 in cash.
Additionally, four IPOB/ESN informants were arrested in Anambra and Imo states.
Major General Markus Kangye reiterated the Armed Forces’ commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of all citizens. “Our operations across various regions are yielding tangible results, and we continue to evolve strategies to meet emerging threats,” he stated.
He also acknowledged the support of Nigerians and the cooperation of other security agencies and international partners. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
