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  • Troops neutralise 2 terrorists, arrest 32, rescue 13 victims – Army

    Troops neutralise 2 terrorists, arrest 32, rescue 13 victims – Army

    Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised two terrorists, apprehended 32 suspects and rescued 13 kidnapped victims in major operations in the last 24 hours across the country.

    A credible source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that the operations were carried out in the North East, North Central, North West, South East and South-South.

    In the North East, he said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai arrested three suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics suppliers in Borno and Yobe.

    He added that one terrorist was neutralised in an ambush in Konduga, while another suspect was apprehended in Garkida, Adamawa, for involvement in earlier attacks.

    In Benue, the source said the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised one extremist in Katsina-Ala and rescued 10 kidnapped victims in Ukum after a gun battle.

    In the North West, he said the troops foiled kidnap attempts in Zamfara, rescuing three victims in Anka.

    Read Also: Troops eliminate terrorists, nab 20 suspects in nationwide operations – Army

    According to him, seven suspects, including a kidnap kingpin in Kaduna and three in Niger, were arrested.

    “In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA apprehended two suspected cultists with a pistol in Imo and recovered an improvised explosive device in Anambra.

    “In the South South, troops of Operation Delta Safe arrested 20 suspects for illegal bunkering, drug trafficking and kidnapping.

    “They also discovered more than 1,200 litres of illegally refined petroleum products in Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta States,” he said.

    The source urged Nigerians to continue to support security agencies with timely information to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations.

    (NAN)

  • Troops eliminate terrorists, nab 20 suspects in nationwide operations – Army

    Troops eliminate terrorists, nab 20 suspects in nationwide operations – Army

    Troops have intensified operations nationwide, killing scores of terrorists, nabbed 20 suspects and rescued kidnap victims in the last 24 hours across theatres.

    A credible source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that troops also recovered a cache of arms, ammunition, motorcycles and stolen petroleum products.

    He said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai foiled ISWAP/JAS attacks in Banki, Damboa and Biu areas of Borno and killed several of their fighters.

    He added that 36 hand grenades, five RPG bombs, 700 rounds of ammunition, uniforms and logistics were captured.

    According to him, troops also intercepted 32 bicycles and a truckload of NPK fertilizer suspected for terrorist use.

    In the North Central, the source said the troops of Operation Enduring Peace rescued a kidnapped girl in Manchok, Kaduna State, while troops of Operation Whirl Stroke rescued another victim in Benue, recovering weapons and ammunition.

    Read Also: Troops arrest 17 suspected oil thieves, recover 45,000 litres of stolen products

    “Elsewhere, troops arrested kidnappers and armed robbers in Sokoto, Taraba, Kebbi and Plateau states, while in Cross River, a suspected cultist was caught with a roasted human leg.

    “Troops also destroyed illegal oil sites in Rivers and bunkering facilities in Cross River.

    “In all, the operations conducted between Sept. 19 and 22 led to the recovery of 10 AK-47 rifles, one FN rifle, five RPG bombs, 36 hand grenades, 39 motorcycles, 32 bicycles, explosives, chemicals and vehicles,” he said.

    The army source said the tempo of operations would be sustained to deny terrorists and criminals freedom of action while boosting food security in line with the Federal Government’s agenda.

    (NAN)

  • Army recovers 10 AK-47 rifles, five bombs, 36 hand grenades from terrorists

    Army recovers 10 AK-47 rifles, five bombs, 36 hand grenades from terrorists

     Army’s troops have neutralised several terrorists, apprehended 20 criminal elements, and recovered 10 AK-47 rifles, five RPG bombs, 36 hand grenades across various theaters of operation.

    A military source, who spoke to The Nation, revealed that troops also recovered a significant cache of ammunition, substantial quantities of drugs, and other items, over the past four days. 

    Elaborating on the operation’s details, the source said the 152 Task Force Battalion, alongside the Hybrid Force and Civilian Joint Task Force, recovered a full box of 12.7 x 108mm rounds and a box of 7.62 x 51mm NATO rounds, among other items, after repelling an ISWAP/JAS attack in Banki, Borno State.

    The source stated that the 21 Special Armoured Brigade successfully neutralized two command improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along the Darel Jamel-Bula road in Yobe State.

    “In another encounter, combined troops of 19 Battalion and 25 Brigade intercepted ISWAP/JAS logistics elements along Damboa–Gumsuri road, neutralizing one terrorist and recovering two AK-47 rifles, 36 hand grenades, IED materials, desert camouflage trousers, four uniforms, 32 bicycles, large quantities of drugs, chemicals, red oil, mosquito nets and other sundry items.”

    According to the source, 222 Battalion laid an ambush in Konduga, Borno State, killing one terrorist, while 3 Battalion intercepted a truckload of dry NPK fertilizer suspected of being intended for terrorist use in Logomani. Additionally, 149 Battalion intercepted four vehicles and arrested four terror logistics suppliers in Gubio, while FOB Gajiram arrested three kidnappers in Nganzai.

    “In fresh counter-offensives, 135 Special Forces Battalion with Civilian JTF repelled ISWAP/JAS attack in Biu Local Government Area, recovering five RPG bombs, three AK-47 magazines with 90 rounds of 7.62mm Special, four PKT belts with 306 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and other items. 

    Read Also: Afenifere: Tinubu, Soyinka distinguished Yoruba sons

    “Similarly, troops at FOB Azir, Damboa repelled another attack, neutralized one terrorist, and recovered three AK-47 rifles, explosives, intoxicants and drugs.”

    On operations in the North West, the military source stated that Nigerian Army troops continue to dominate the area, neutralizing terrorists and recovering weapons. Specifically, troops of the Defence Special Operations Battalion killed two terrorists in Sokoto, recovering one AK-47 rifle and two magazines. Additionally, in engagements with terrorists at Jeka Areda and Ruwan Godia in Katsina State, the troops captured seven motorcycles.

    In Kaduna, Sector 7, Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) rescued a kidnapped girl at Manchok, arresting one criminal, while Sector 8 OPEP arrested another suspect in Plateau with a Dane gun. 

    The source stated, “1 Battalion (Rear), in collaboration with the Department of State Service (DSS), apprehended four terrorists in Kebbi, confiscating a vehicle, mobile phones, and other items. 

    “In Taraba, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) troops arrested three suspected kidnappers. Meanwhile, in Rivers, troops intercepted and destroyed 350 litres of crude oil being illegally siphoned from the Imo River. 

    “Furthermore, Sector 1 OPWS troops in Benue rescued a kidnap victim and seized one FN rifle, five magazines, and 83 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. In Cross River, 245 Battalion neutralized one miscreant, arrested two others, and recovered a pistol, cartridge, and drug paraphernalia.” 

  • How Army’s swift action shielded 10,000 families from ISWAP attack in Borno, Yobe

    How Army’s swift action shielded 10,000 families from ISWAP attack in Borno, Yobe

    • Loses one soldier

    Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have protected 10,000 households from an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacks in Banki, Borno State, and Bula, Yobe State.

    The farming communities host over 10,000 families who had recently returned to their ancestral home after years of displacement by Boko Haram insurgency.

    This year, ISWAP and other Boko Haram splinter groups in Borno and Yobe have intensified attacks on civilians and security forces.

    On September 18, ISWAP terrorists attacked Banki and Bula communities, aiming to disrupt the hard-earned peace and plunge innocent citizens into fear and displacement.

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    However, a source said the troops’ display of gallantry and resilience saved the situation. 

    The source explained that ground troops, supported by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), mounted a robust defence, crushing the terrorists and inflicting heavy losses in both manpower and equipment, forcing them to flee in disarray.

    According to the source, when the terrorists struck, the troops located at Banki “reinforced by additional formations, stood firm to protect the surrounding towns, shielding women, children and elderly citizens”, who would have been the prime victims of the terror attack.

    He said one soldier paid the supreme price during the counter-offensive.

    The source explained: “In Bula Yobe, soldiers displayed remarkable tactical discipline and courage, foiling repeated enemy attempts to breach the security of the areas including troops’ positions.

    “The troops’ resilience protected farmers who only recently returned to their lands to rebuild livelihoods. Their heroic actions ensured that not a single community was overrun and that families remained safe under the protection and cover of their military.”

    Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division/Commander Sector 1 OPHK, Brig.-Gen Ugochukwu Unachukwu, during his visit to Banki at the weekend commended the troops for their “extraordinary sacrifice.”

    Gen Unachukwu confirmed that the terrorists had been dealt “a decisive blow” in the joint air and ground counter offensive operation.

  • Army nabs terrorists’ commander, 60 others in nationwide crackdown

    Army nabs terrorists’ commander, 60 others in nationwide crackdown

    Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded another round of success in their amplified onslaught against terrorists and other non-state actors across the country.

    A highly reliable source told The Nation on Friday that troops have arrested a suspected terrorist leader, Malam Abubakar Ahmadu, in Niger State, along with 60 other criminal elements across the country, during operations conducted from September 15 to 17.

    A weapons fabricator, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) logistics suppliers, and drug peddlers were arrested, while various high-calibre weapons and other items were recovered.

    According to the military source, the terrorist leader and two other accomplices were arrested on September 17 by the 31 Military Intelligence Regiment and 313 Artillery Regiment, at Tungan Mallam market in Paikoro Local Government Area of Niger State.

    The source also revealed that intensified pressure on terrorist logistics networks by the 29 Task Force Brigade and 117 Task Force Battalion, during operations on September 15 and 16, resulted in the arrest of five Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) logistics suppliers in Benisheikh market, Kaga Local Government Area, and at Kautikari village in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State.

    He said, “In separate operations, troops at Nguru, Yobe State, intercepted four suspects transporting large quantities of fabrics, fertilizer, solar panels, and drugs intended for terrorist use. Another suspect was arrested in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area, with assorted drugs, while follow-up operations led to the arrest of two accomplices.

    “Furthermore, troops arrested a suspected terrorist spy in Monguno town, Borno State, who confessed to being part of a 10-man team tasked with kidnapping victims for the insurgents.”

    According to the military source, ongoing counter-criminality operations in Adamawa State also yielded significant gains, with troops from the 232 Battalion, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), arresting five suspects during a raid on a large Indian hemp farm in Kwaji village, Mubi North Local Government Area.

    On successes in the North West zone, the source said that troops of Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces and 312 Artillery Regiment recovered one AK-47 rifle with 25 rounds, five cows, 15 rams, and other items after dispersing insurgents, during offensive operations around Kajuru Local Government Area. He said troops in Yuna village, Giwa Local Government Area, recovered motorcycles and arrested two suspects linked to bandit groups.

    “In all, troops in Kaduna State neutralized terrorists in, rescued kidnap victims, and recovered a total of at least 14 weapons, various calibres of ammunition, motorcycles, livestock, and other logistics items.”

    Read Also: Nigerian Army seeks stronger collaboration to counter fake news

    The military source revealed that troops also recorded significant strides in the North Central zone, arresting 11 suspected kidnappers in Ruga settlement at Wildlife Park, Jos South Local Government Area, rescue of a female kidnap victim in Riyom Local Government Area, and arresting 25 suspected drug leaders in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

    “ln a related development troops of Sector 4 Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) raided a weapons fabrication factory at Heipang District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, arresting a fabricator and recovering 12 assorted fabricated weapons, a pistol, 19 PKT rounds, cartridges, other calibres of ammunition, a smoke grenade, two fragmental jackets, and communication devices,” he said.

    “Additionally, in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State, troops arrested three extremist logisticians and seized motorcycles, phones, and cutlasses.”

    According to the military source, troops in the South-South region continue to sustain pressure on illegal bunkering and refining activities, destroying illegal refining sites, recovering stolen crude oil and illicitly refined petroleum products, and rescuing kidnap victims.

    He said, on September 16, troops of 5 Battalion with personnel of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) discovered illegal refining sites at Biseni in Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, while 103 Battalion and 6 Division Anti-Bunkery team intercepted 450 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), popularly known as diesel fuel, at Ogbogolo community in Rivers State.

    Likewise, on September 17, troops of Joint Task Force Operation DELTA SAFE in collaboration with Tantita Security Services, intercepted a boat laden with 500 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Degema Local Government Area.

    “In Edo State, troops of 4 Brigade rescued a kidnap victim at Emu community, Esan South East Local Government Area, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their mission,” the military source said.

  • Troops kill 3 terrorist commanders, 16 others – Army

    Troops kill 3 terrorist commanders, 16 others – Army

    The Nigerian Army says troops have killed three terrorist commanders alongside 16 other fighters in recent encounters in the North East and other theatres of operations.

    A source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the terror commanders were identified as Modu Dogo (Munzir of Dogon Chukun), another unidentified Munzir, and Abu Aisha Qaid of Tumbun Mota.

    The source said that troops also apprehended 26 suspects, rescued victims, and recovered 109 rustled cattle, weapons and other logistics items.

    He said the terrorists’ commanders were killed during clashes in Borno and Adamawa States after intense engagements.

    According to him, troops also recovered an AK-47 rifle, magazines, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, an anti-aircraft link, 14 motorcycles, seven blankets and a mobile phone after the encounters.

    The source said a terrorist informant and logistics supplier, who had secretly aided terrorists for more than four years, was arrested around Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno.

    In the North West, he said the troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, rescued two kidnapped victims during operations in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

    He added that troops also carried out patrols in Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi States, recovering cash, phones and other items, while disrupting terrorist movements and preventing further attacks on rural communities.

    “In the North Central, troops of Operation MESA arrested a suspected kidnapper in Yagba Local Government Area of Kogi.

    “The suspect was neutralized while attempting to escape from custody,” he said.

    The source added that troops ambushed kidnappers along Okehi–Kabba forest axis, killing two terrorists while others escaped with injuries.

    He added that troops neutralised a violent extremist identified as a spiritualist in Lokoja

    The military source also revealed that troops of Operation Ensuring Peace eliminated insurgents in Wase and Kanam Local Government Areas of Plateau, following the abduction and killing of a traditional ruler in the area.

    “In Kanam Local Government Area, troops intercepted criminals who rustled109 cattle.

    “The extremists fled, abandoning the livestock, which were recovered and returned to the rightful owner,” he added.

    He said the troops Operation Whirl Stroke eliminated two insurgents and armed robbers as well as recovered weapons in Benue and Taraba States.

    In the South East, the source said the troops of Operation UDO KA apprehended a high-profile IPOB/ESN criminal, Akachukwu Alaka, also known as Akanna.

    He said the suspect was nabbed during a sting operation in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra on Monday.

    According to him, troops also raided the hideout of another notorious IPOB/ESN leader, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, also known as Gentle de Yahoo, in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo.

    The source said the criminals fled before troops arrived but recovered a pistol, 145 rounds of ammunition, six phones, police and army uniforms, and a Biafran insignia.

    “Further exploitation uncovered a criminal workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled for sale.

    “Troops destroyed the facility and burnt10 motorcycles used by the criminals in various attacks.

    “Troops also neutralized two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by IPOB/ESN elements in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo.

    Read Also: Troops kill three terrorists, capture IPOB Commander Gentle de Yahoo

    “The devices were destroyed without any casualties recorded.

    In the South South, the source said the troops of Operation Delta Safe, in collaboration with NDLEA, arrested 21 drug suspects in Bayelsa.

    He said that large quantities of illicit substances were seized in the raid.

    According to him, troops further uncovered illegal refineries in Rivers, apprehended two suspected bunker operators, killed one other, and destroyed several dugout pits containing refined petroleum products in line with directives.

    According to him, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, and urged them to sustain operational momentum until terrorism and criminality are defeated.

    (NAN)

  • Army neutralises three terrorists, rescues 12 kidnap victims in 24 hours

    Army neutralises three terrorists, rescues 12 kidnap victims in 24 hours

    In the last 24 hours, Nigerian Army’s troops have killed three terrorists and rescued 11 kidnap victims in Benue, Katsina, Kogi and Adamawa States during operations.

    Additionally, troops arrested a notorious Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) member and kingpin in Imo State and recovered 40 stolen cows in Plateau State.

    A military source at the Army Headquarters told The Nation Tuesday morning that troops arrested 11 criminal suspects in Kaduna, Kogi and Benue States, recovering various caliber weapons and seizing stolen items.

    Elaborating on the troops successes, the source said 34 Artillery Brigade in a joint operation with sister services and other security agencies, arrested a notorious IPOB/ESN criminal kingpin, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta (aka Gentle de Yahoo), at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. 

    Read Also: Coalition commends Army Chief Oluyede for prioritising troops’ welfare

    “The operation led to the recovery of one English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, one cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag. Troops also uncovered a workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled for resale, in addition to destroying 10 motorcycles found at the scene.”

    According to the source, troops rescued five in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, five at Kukasheka Ward in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, and two in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

    He said: “Also, troops recorded notable operational breakthroughs in Katsina State, neutralizing two terrorists in separate encounters, and recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle, while in Benue State, troops neutralized one violent extremist, seizing a mobile phone and assorted charms.

    “In addition, 11 suspects were arrested in different locations across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States for armed robbery, gunrunning, and violent extremist activities. 

    “Troops of the Nigerian Army also recovered 40 rustled cattle in Plateau State, which were returned to their rightful owners.”

  • Coalition commends Army Chief Oluyede for prioritising troops’ welfare

    Coalition commends Army Chief Oluyede for prioritising troops’ welfare

    A coalition of civil society unions, the Campaign Against Injustice (CAI), has praised the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his commitment to the welfare of Nigerian troops.

    In a statement on Monday by its convener, Abbey Jolaosho, CAI said the initiative has further strengthened the Army Chief’s resolve to confront Nigeria’s security challenges head-on.

    “The announcement by Gen. Oluyede will boost the morale of the troops and provide the impetus for them to give their best. We are glad with this development as it confirms our belief that the Army Chief has what it takes to win the war on terrorism,” the group stated.

    CAI further appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to support the military whenever necessary, noting that the fight against insurgency requires a collective effort.

    “We are using this medium to urge all Nigerians to ‘own’ the Army and assist in whatever ways at this defining moment in our country. We have to bear it in mind that defeating this hydra called terrorism would require the support of the civilians. 

    “It’s expedient at this moment to also play our own part, which is incumbent on us by the Constitution as good citizens,” the group noted.

    It would be recalled that Gen Oluyede last Tuesday paid an operational visit to Godwin Ally Barracks, Ogoja, Cross River State, where he commended the resilience and dedication of officers and soldiers of 130 Battalion and 341 Artillery Regiment. 

    He praised their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and assured them that the Nigerian Army, under his leadership, would continue to prioritise their welfare alongside operational effectiveness.

    The visit formed part of his assessment tour of formations and units under the 82 Division Area of Responsibility. 

    On arrival, the COAS inspected key facilities, interacted directly with the troops, and expressed appreciation for the sacrifices they continue to make in the face of difficult security challenges.

    Oluyede, who has consistently underlined his belief in supporting soldiers’ families, disclosed that substantial resources were being invested in revamping schools within the barracks to ensure children and wards of personnel have access to first-class education. 

    He also directed the immediate renovation of dilapidated accommodation blocks to provide better living standards for soldiers and their dependants.

    Reaffirming his “Soldiers First” mantra, the Army Chief stressed that his administration was committed to improving the living and working conditions of Nigerian Army personnel, while equipping them with the tools needed to tackle evolving security threats.

    Read Also: COAS Oluyede rallies troops in Cross River, promises improved welfare

     He cited the recent increase in the Ration Cash Allowance, which has allowed commanders to provide better meals for their troops, as a measure that must be matched by renewed commitment and professionalism on the part of the soldiers.

    The COAS further announced ongoing efforts to provide every soldier with new uniforms and essential military kits to ensure seamless operational performance. 

    These measures, he said, were part of deliberate steps to standardise readiness, reinforce esprit de corps, and raise morale across the ranks.

    Charging the troops to maintain the highest standards of discipline and professionalism, General Oluyede urged them to strengthen synergy with sister security agencies and engage positively with host communities. 

    He said that such collaboration was vital to consolidating peace and stability in Cross River and the wider region.

    The Ogoja visit, like others undertaken in recent weeks, highlighted the dual focus of the Army Chief’s leadership — driving operational efficiency on the frontlines while also investing heavily in welfare initiatives for the rank and file.

  • Army rescues 30 kidnap-victims, recovers stolen crude, weapons in nationwide raid

    Army rescues 30 kidnap-victims, recovers stolen crude, weapons in nationwide raid

    Troops have killed one terrorist and rescued 30 kidnap-victims over the past three days as part of their intensified operations nationwide.

    The operations also resulted in the arrest of suspected kidnappers and recovery of various calibre weapons, stolen crude and petroleum products, motorcycles, cash, and other logistical items.

    A source at the Army Headquarters told The Nation yesterday that on September 10, the 22 Brigade apprehended two suspected kidnappers in Babanna, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, while the 12 Brigade, in collaboration with hybrid forces and vigilantes, rescued 17 kidnap-victims who had been abandoned by their abductors in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

    “Similarly, troops of Sector 1 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) rescued another victim in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State while their Sector 1 OPWS counterpart recovered an AK-47 rifle and 29 rounds of ammunition during a patrol in Ado Local Government Area, Benue State.

    “In Plateau State, Sector 8 troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) arrested two suspected rustlers in Mangu Local Government Area and recovered weapons, ammunition, and cash,” the source said.

    According to him, on September 11, troops achieved further gains in Kogi State, with 12 Brigade neutralising one violent extremist in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area and recovered a fully loaded AK-47 magazine and 31 mobile phones.

    According to him, on September 11, troops achieved further successes in Kogi State, with the 12 Brigade killing one extremist in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area and recovering a  loaded AK-47 magazine and 31 mobile phones.

    On the same day, troops of 8 Division rescued seven kidnapped victims and recovered a vehicle during an encounter with terrorists on the Marnona-Gundumi-Isa Road, while 12 Brigade rescued four kidnap victims on the Egbe-Eruku Road in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

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    In Borno State, one Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) terrorist surrendered to hybrid forces at Ngamdu, and is providing useful valuable information and intelligence on their (terrorist) operations in the area.

    “Also on 11 September, troops intercepted smugglers in Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa State, abandoning a truck loaded with 20 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS),” the source said.

    “In Plateau State, Sector 2 troops repelled an extremist attack in Quan-Pan Local Government Area with support from tactical drones, while troops of Sector 3 OPEP rescued another kidnapped victim in Bassa Local Government Area.”

    In the Soutsouth, the source said, troops of Operation Delta Safe dismantled an illegal refining site containing about 3,800 litres of stolen crude oil in Bayelsa State, while another team intercepted 1,600 litres of illegally refined AGO in Rivers State.

    “On September 12, troops of Sector 3 OPEP rescued yet another kidnap victim in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, who had been abducted in Jos the previous day.’’

  • Army rescues 30 kidnap victims, recovers stolen crude, weapons in three-day operation 

    Army rescues 30 kidnap victims, recovers stolen crude, weapons in three-day operation 

    In a significant breakthrough, the Nigerian Army’s troops have killed one terrorist and rescued 30 kidnap victims over the past three days as part of their ongoing intensified operations nationwide. 

    The operations also resulted in the arrest of suspected kidnappers and recovery of various caliber weapons, stolen crude and petroleum products, motorcycles, cash, and other logistical items.

    A military source at the Army Headquarters told The Nation on Sunday that the Army remains committed to creating a safer environment that will foster prosperity for all citizens.

    Elaborating on the Army’s successes, the source revealed that on September 10, the 22 Brigade apprehended two suspected kidnappers in Babanna, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, while the 12 Brigade, in collaboration with hybrid forces and vigilantes, rescued 17 kidnap victims who had been abandoned by their abductors in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

    Read Also: Army kills terrorists, arrests 71 suspects in nationwide onslaught

    “Similarly, troops of Sector 1 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) rescued another victim in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. In another raid, troops of Sector 1 OPWS recovered an AK-47 rifle and 29 rounds of ammunition during a patrol in Ado LGA, Benue State.

    “In Plateau State, Sector 8 troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) arrested two suspected rustlers in Mangu LGA and recovered weapons, ammunition, and cash,” the source said. 

    According to him, on September 11, troops achieved further gains in Kogi State, with 12 Brigade neutralizing one violent extremist in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area and recovered a fully loaded AK-47 magazine and 31 mobile phones. 

    According to him, on September 11, troops achieved further successes in Kogi State, with the 12 Brigade neutralizing one violent extremist in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area and recovering a fully loaded AK-47 magazine and 31 mobile phones.

    On the same day, troops of 8 Division rescued seven kidnapped victims and recovered a vehicle during an encounter with terrorists along Marnona–Gundumi–Isa road, while 12 Brigade rescued 4 kidnap victims along Egbe–Eruku road in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State. 

    In Borno State, one Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) terrorist surrendered to hybrid forces at Ngamdu, and is providing useful valuable information and intelligence on their (terrorist) operations in the area.

    “Also on 11 September, troops intercepted smugglers in Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa State, abandoning a truck loaded with 20 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS),” the source said. 

    “In Plateau State, Sector 2 troops repelled a violent extremist attack in Quan-Pan Local Government Area with support from tactical drones, while troops of Sector 3 OPEP rescued another kidnapped victim in Bassa Local Government Area.”

    In the South-South, the source said, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE discovered and dismantled an illegal refining site containing about 3,800 litres of stolen crude oil in Bayelsa State, while another team intercepted 1,600 litres of illegally refined AGO in Rivers State.

    “On September 12, troops of Sector 3 OPEP rescued yet another kidnap victim in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, who had been abducted in Jos the previous day. 

    “Cumulatively, within the period, troops neutralized one terrorist, facilitated the surrender of one terrorist, arrested six suspects, rescued 30 kidnapped victims, and recovered assorted weapons, ammunition, cash, petroleum products, motorcycles, mobile phones, and other logistics,” he said.