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Tag: troops

  • Troops will maintain aggressive operational tempo to degrade insurgents, criminals in Kogi, COAS says

    Troops will maintain aggressive operational tempo to degrade insurgents, criminals in Kogi, COAS says

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said the military will maintain its aggressive operational tempo aimed at degrading threats against criminal networks in Kogi and other parts of the country.

    Shaibu gave the assurance when he received Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi, on a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

    This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said the army remains fully committed to protecting lives and property.

    Read Also: Army sustains operational gains against terrorists in multiple theatres

    The COAS also pledged deeper synergy with state governments to strengthen security architecture and entrench lasting peace.

    Earlier, Gov. Ododo congratulated the COAS on his appointment as the 25th Chief of Army Staff, describing it as a deserved acknowledgement of his leadership and capacity.

    Ododo thanked President Bola Tinubu for appointing Shaibu at a critical moment in the nation’s security efforts.

    The governor commended the Nigerian army for its sustained sacrifices in safeguarding the country and assured the full support of the Kogi Government for ongoing and future military operations in the state. (NAN)

  • Troops arrest another notorious kidnap suspect in Taraba

    Troops arrest another notorious kidnap suspect in Taraba

    Troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended another suspected kidnapper in Taraba.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday by Lt. Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations of the brigade, said the suspect was arrested through a coordinated operation.

    “During a carefully coordinated operation on November 23, 2025, troops apprehended a suspect, identified as Alhaji Abubakar Bawa who is believed to be a close associate of Mr Umar Musa.

    “Umar Musa is another notorious kidnapping mastermind who was arrested by 6 Brigade troops on November 22 2025 in Wukari.

    “Preliminary investigations have established strong links between the two suspects and a wider criminal syndicate responsible for multiple kidnappings, violent attacks, and coordinated criminal activities across the Southern Taraba region,” the statement added.

    Brig. Gen. Kingsley Uwa, the Commander 6 Brigade has commended the troops for their professionalism, resilience, and operational precision.

    “The arrest of Bawa is a clear indication that Operation Zafin Wuta is achieving its intended objective of dismantling criminal syndicates and restoring security to affected communities.

    “This latest success reinforces the resolve of the Nigerian Army to rid Southern Taraba of all criminal threats and restore lasting peace to the area,” Uwa said.

    He urged residents to remain alert and provide credible information that will further assist security agencies in their ongoing efforts.

    (NAN)

  • Troops destroy seven illegal refineries, recover 109,000 litres of stolen products in Niger Delta

    Troops destroy seven illegal refineries, recover 109,000 litres of stolen products in Niger Delta

    Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have sustained the crackdown against oil thieves across the Niger Delta Region (NDR), destroying seven illegal refineries and seizing 109,000 litres of stolen products.

    The Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt.Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma confirmed the development in a statement on Monday.

    Danjuma said out of the confiscated products, 88,000 litres were stolen crude oil while 21,355 litres were illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) adding that the total cost of the products recovered amounted to over N150m.

    He said the operations conducted in Rivers State around Okolomade in Ahoada West Local Government Area (LGA) led to the deactivation of three illegal refining sites and recovery of three big pots, four big receivers and three big coolants, with over 40,000 litres of stolen crude and 20,000 litres of illegally refined AGO.

    He said at the fringes of the Imo River, troops discovered three illegal refining sites, eight drum pots, seven drum receivers, one fibre boat and over 14,700 litres of stolen crude around Asa, Obeakpo, Lekuma and Abiama in Oyigbo LGA.

    Danjuma said following credible intelligence, troops stormed a compound at Abuloma in Okrika LGA and discovered about 1,050 sacks filled with over 32,000 litres of stolen crude. 

    “At Abonnema Creek in Akuku-Toru LGA, troops intercepted a Cotonou boat loaded with 25 sacks filled with over 1,000 litres of illegally refined AGO”, he said.

    Danjuma said in Akwa Ibom State, troops conducted a raid on a suspected storage facility at Ikot Akpan, Ekparakwa along the Abak–Ikot Abasi road in Abak LGA. 

    “During the operations, over 520 litres of illegally refined AGO stored in a drum and ten jerricans, as well as several empty jerricans, were recovered”, he said.

    In Delta State, he said the troops conducted an operation at DAEWOO yard within Ekpan area in Uvwie LGA, but that on sighting troops, the suspected oil thieves fled into nearby creeks with wooden boats loaded with jerricans. 

    Danjuma explained that the troops also discovered three 25-litre jerricans filled with 75 litres of crude oil.

    While commending the troops for their resilience, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.- Gen. Emmanuel Eric Emekah, charged them to sustain the tempo in ensuring that economic saboteurs were effectively denied freedom of action in the NDR. 

    The GOC also called on the good people of the region to continue supporting military operations by providing credible intelligence on the activities of criminal elements in their domain.

  • Troops nab notorious kidnapper Umar Geyi in Taraba

    Troops nab notorious kidnapper Umar Geyi in Taraba

    The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has apprehended notorious kidnapper Umar Geyi at Jandei-Kulamu in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba state.

    Geyi was apprehended on November 22, following credible intelligence, spokesperson of 6 Brigade, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, stated in a statement on Sunday.

    The suspect was reportedly on the wanted list of security agencies and is believed to be a key member of a kidnapping syndicate that has terrorized several communities within the area.

    Read Also: DHQ denies plan to forcibly recruit young Nigerians into military

    According to the state statement, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is linked to the kidnapping of one Alhaji Jano, a Fulani resident of Jandei-Kulala on November 13.

    “Geyi was arrested after troops intercepted him during a phone conversation in which he confirmed the victim was still being held and demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for his release,” the statement said.

    The statement stated that the suspect is in custody, undergoing further interrogation to determine the victim’s location and facilitate his safe rescue. 

  • Troops kill ISWAP terrorists, destroy supply links in nationwide onslaught

    Troops kill ISWAP terrorists, destroy supply links in nationwide onslaught

    The Nigerian Army’s troops have continued to record successes against terrorists and other criminals in the ongoing operations nationwide.

    Over the past 72 hours, troops have neutralized Islamic State West Africa (ISWAP) terrorists and arrested 14 suspected criminals across various operational theaters.

    A source at the Army headquarters told The Nation that two terrorist kingpins also surrendered to troops, while multiple weapons and illicit items were recovered. 

    Providing details on the operations, the source said 3 Battalion laid an ambush along Gamboru–Dikwa road, disrupting terror logistics movement and seized various items. 

    “Similarly, troops of 192 Battalion and Hybrid Forces at Kuranabasa in Gwoza neutralized one ISWAP/JAS logistics courier, while two family members of the terrorist group surrendered to 112 Task Force Battalion in Mafa. 

    “Additionally, troops at a checkpoint in Kukawa arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator residing in Baga.”

    In operations across the North West zones, the source said troops continued to degrade criminal networks in Zamfara, rescuing seven kidnapped victims after a swift pursuit of armed men in Maradun.

    Read Also: Troops rescue stranded 74 Corps members from Boko Haram axis

    In Kebbi State, troops from 1 Battalion in Birnin Kebbi apprehended two individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade and handed them over to officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    In the North Central zone, the 3 Division Garrison in Plateau State arrested a gunrunner with 10 weapons, including fabricated rifles and a Dane gun. They also apprehended a notorious criminal kingpin known as Umar Idi (aka Lere) in Shendam, and recovered a motorcycle and sundry items.

    Another suspect linked to a recent killing was arrested in Taraba with a locally made pistol and incriminating items.

    Troops also intensified anti-narcotics operations in Lagos, arresting seven drug peddlers and seizing several illicit substances.

    The achievements, according to the source, highlighted the Army’s unwavering resolve to protect citizens and deny criminal elements freedom of action. 

  • Troops rescue 86 victims, nab 29 terror suspects in Borno

    Troops rescue 86 victims, nab 29 terror suspects in Borno

    Troops of Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have rescued 86 kidnapped victims and foiled a terrorists’ ambush during coordinated operations in Borno.

    This is contained in a statement on Monday by the Media Information Officer for OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba.

    Uba said the troops of 135 Special Forces Battalion under Sector 2, OPHK, encountered Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists at Dutse Kura on Sunday while responding to reports of abductions along the Buratai–Kamuya Road.

    He said the troops engaged the insurgents, pursued them towards Mangari, and overpowered them in a follow-up encounter that led to the destruction of 11 makeshift terrorists’ structures.

    According to him eight victims, including men, women, and children, were rescued in the operation.

    Read Also: Lagbaja was selfless, prioritised troops’ welfare, says CDC

    “Recovered items include an AK-47 rifle, five magazines with 73 rounds, four PKT ammunition belts, five civilian vehicles, five motorcycles, eight bicycles, and two logistics tricycles. The terrorists’ camp was destroyed after clearance operations,” he said.

    Uba said that troops deployed at Mangada also apprehended 29 suspected terrorist logistics suppliers en route to Chilaria area of Borno.

    He said suspects were nabbed with two pickup vans and a tricycle loaded with about 1,000 litres of petrol, engine oil, new gun truck tyres, medical consumables, and large quantities of foodstuff.

    According to him, the Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism and urged them to sustain the tempo to deny terrorists freedom of action across the North East theatre.

    (NAN)

  • Troops rescue military officer, nine others in Benue

    Troops rescue military officer, nine others in Benue

    Troops of Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke  (OPWS) have rescued a military personnel and nine others from kidnappers in Benue State.

    This is contained in a statement by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, Head Quarters OPWS, in Makurdi on Wednesday.

    According to him, on Nov. 3, troops deployed at Kyado, Ukum LG while on patrol along Zaki-Biam–Wukari Road received an intelligence report about kidnapping activities at a checkpoint.

    Zubairu said that the kidnappers disguised themselves in police uniforms to deceive unsuspecting road users.

    “Upon receiving the information, the troops mobilised swiftly to the scene. On sighting the approaching soldiers, the kidnappers fled in disarray into nearby bushes.

    “The troops immediately pursued the fleeing suspects, following their tracks deep into the forest. During the search operations, 10 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued.

    “Among those rescued was Warrant Officer John Richard, personnel of 6 Brigade Band, Jalingo, while two other victims are still unaccounted for as search operations continue.”

    Read Also: Barau hails troops, seeks sustained onslaught against bandits

    He said rescued  individuals were handed over to appropriate authorities for further action.

    Zubairu stated that Force Commander, OPWS, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, has commended the troops for their gallantry, swift response, and commitment to protecting innocent citizens.

    “He particularly lauded the tactical commander for his exemplary leadership and proactive measures in combating criminal activities within the general area”.

    (NAN) 

  • Many insurgents killed as troops repel attack on military base

    Many insurgents killed as troops repel attack on military base

    Attempts by terrorists to launch coordinated attacks on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kangar, located at Mallam Fatori in Borno State, have been repelled with several of the insurgents killed, the Nigerian Army said. 

    It said troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Joint Task Force North East, foiled attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in the early hours of Tuesday. 

    According to a statement by the Media Information Officer, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, the attack occurred around 4:30am on Tuesday when the insurgents, armed with drones and mortars, launched a heavy assault on the base’s defensive positions.

    The troops, reinforced by the main force from the Battalion under Sector 3, reportedly displayed exceptional courage and tactical superiority in repelling the terrorists. 

    Despite the initial bombardment, the soldiers held their ground and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange of fire, supported by close air support from Nigerien fighter aircraft.

    READ ALSO: DSS dismisses 115 personnel, warns public against impostors

    Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordination of the joint force, the terrorists fled in disarray into the waterways of the Tumbuns, evacuating several of their dead and wounded.

    “A post-battle clearance operation confirmed the neutralisation of six terrorists. Items recovered included five AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, 258 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, five RPG bombs, four armed drone bombs, five hand grenades, two bandoliers, and one Android phone,” Uba said. 

    Follow-up air interdictions by the Nigerian and Nigerien air forces targeted the fleeing insurgents, killing additional fighters, the army added. 

    It said a few personnel of the Joint Task Force and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained minor injuries during the encounter, adding that they were evacuated by Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) aircraft for medical attention and are in stable condition. 

    “The MNJTF also provided intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support during the operation. Exploitation operations were ongoing in the waterways and nearby areas to track down fleeing terrorists and prevent further movement. 

    “Troops’ morale and combat efficiency remained high as they continued to maintain dominance in the region. The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience, and professionalism, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace and security in the North East through sustained and coordinated operations,” said Uba. 

  • Troops kill scores of terrorists in thwarted attack on Mallam Fatori

    Troops kill scores of terrorists in thwarted attack on Mallam Fatori

    Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a coordinated terrorist attack on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kangar in Mallam Fatori, Borno, killing several Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in a fierce gun duel.

    This is contained in a statement by the Military Information Officer, OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, on Tuesday.

    Uba said the attack, which occurred around 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday, saw the insurgents deploy armed drones and mortar shells in an attempt to breach the base’s defences.

    He said the troops, supported by the main battalion under Sector 3, stood their ground and fought back with superior firepower and air support from Nigerien fighter aircraft.

    According to him, the terrorists, overwhelmed by the combined ground and air assault, fled into the Tumbun waterways, leaving behind bodies of their fighters and weapons.

    “Items recovered from the scene include five AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, 258 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, five RPG bombs, four armed drone bombs, five hand grenades, two bandoliers and an Android phone.

    “Follow-up airstrikes by Nigerian and Nigerien air forces on the fleeing terrorists further inflicted heavy casualties.

    Read Also: Troops neutralise 19 bandits, repel incursion into Kano council

    “A few soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force sustained minor injuries and were promptly evacuated for treatment by Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) medical teams. All are said to be in stable condition,” he said.

    Uba added that the MNJTF also provided intelligence and surveillance support that enhanced the troops’ response during the battle.

    “Military authorities have commended the troops for their resilience, gallantry and professionalism, assuring that ongoing clearance operations would ensure the terrorists have no safe haven in the region.

    “The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and stability in the North-East through sustained joint operations.

    (NAN)

  • Troops neutralise 19 bandits, repel incursion into Kano council

    Troops neutralise 19 bandits, repel incursion into Kano council

    • Rescue kidnapped victims from bandits, recover N 3.8m ransom

    Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation MESA, in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, have repelled a bandits’ attack and protected vulnerable communities in the area.

    The operation, led by personnel of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, followed a tip-off on the movement of bandits around Ungwan Tudu, Ungwan Tsamiya, and Goron Dutse axis of Shanono at about 5pm on November 1.

    A statement issued by Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Capt. Babatunde Zubairu, said the troops, supported by other security agencies, engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat.

    “It was confirmed that the bandits, who arrived on motorcycles, sustained several casualties during the encounter,” he said.

    Zubairu added that the troops deployed at Tsaure community came in contact with the bandits, leading to an exchange of fire that resulted in the recovery of several motorcycles and two mobile phones.

    According to him, 19 bandits were neutralised in the operation, while two soldiers and a local vigilante lost their lives.

    He said further operations were ongoing in the general area to ensure the protection of vulnerable communities often targeted for cattle rustling and other criminal activities.

    “The Nigerian Army urges the citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies,” Zubairu added.

    The Commander, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Tukur, assured residents of the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state, in collaboration with other security agencies.

    In the same vein, troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma, Kogi State have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered the ransom money meant for their release.

    The operation which led to the rescue of the victims took place on Sunday following credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis, as well as reports of relatives of some of the victims attempting to deliver ransom to secure their release.

    The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations,12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant  Hassan Abdullahi  confirmed the development in Lokoja yesterday.

    Read Also: Arzikin Noma: pact with NALDA to boost food security, curb inflation

    He said troops acted swiftly on the information “and projected a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits.”

    Abdullahi added: “However, while en route to the location, the troops came under fire from the criminals. In the ensuing exchange, the gallant soldiers engaged the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon two victims along with the ransom money. The criminals subsequently fled into the forest with various degrees of gunshot wounds.”

    He further revealed that following the encounter, the troops rescued the victims and recovered N3,800,000 intended for ransom payment.

    According to him, the rescued victims were immediately debriefed to aid further operations, while the recovered cash was handed back to them.

    “They are currently in safe custody at the troops’ location pending handover to the appropriate authorities”, he added.

    He further declared” The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to protect lives and property. Members of the public are therefore enjoined to continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid in the fight against criminal elements within the state.”