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Tag: troops

  • Troops kill terrorists, arrest 15, rescue 15 hostages in crackdown

    Troops kill terrorists, arrest 15, rescue 15 hostages in crackdown

    • ISWAP fighter surrenders, military arrests collaborators in Kano, Lagos, others

    • Military not paying ransom to bandits, says DHQ

    TROOPS of the Nigerian Army have killed scores of terrorists and arrested 15 others in a series of operations across the country.

    A military source told The Nation on Monday night that troops also rescued 15 kidnap victims during onslaughts conducted from August 29 to 31.

    According to the source, troops recovered a large cache of high calibre weapons, ammunition, explosives, and illegal refined petroleum products.

    The source indicated that in the Northwest zone, troops of 17 Brigade in Katsina State and 1 Brigade Combat Team in Zamfara State rescued 12 kidnap victims from terrorists’ captivity.

    They also rescued some people in the Northcentral and Southeast, with Operation Whirl Stroke in Nasarawa State and 34 Artillery Brigade troops in Imo State.

    Also, an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighter has surrendered to troops of 242 Recce Battalion, Nigerian Army, in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State.

    READ ALSO: Your governor has your money, ask him for it

    Troops also arrested several terrorist and criminal collaborators in Kano, Plateau, Taraba, Lagos, and Rivers states, recovering weapons and ammunition.

    According to the source, a preliminary investigation into the surrendered ISWAP fighter showed that he had been with the group since 2013 but abandoned the insurgency due to hardship and internal divisions.

    The Armed Forces have restated their opposition to the payment of ransom to bandits and criminal groups.

    Speaking on national television yesterday, the Chief of Defence Operations, Maj.-Gen. Emeka Onumajuru, said experience had shown that ransom payments do not work and only embolden criminals.

    “The Armed Forces of Nigeria do not support the payment of money to criminal groups. The armed forces of Nigeria are not part of that arrangement,” he stated.

    According to the source, a team comprising 1 Battalion Rear of the Army, other security forces, and vigilantes intensified crackdowns on suspected collaborators and logistics suppliers of criminal groups in the Northwest, raiding criminal hideouts in Kebbi and Sokoto states, where they arrested six suspected members of the notorious Lakurawa terrorist group and seized their items and cash.

    He said: “In Kano and Kaduna states, troops recovered empty ammunition shells and other evidence after encounters with fleeing terrorists,” the source said.

    “In Taraba State, three impostors posing as security personnel were apprehended and handed over to the Police for further investigation.”

    The source reported a significant success against IPOB/ESN fighters in Imo State, where troops dismantled and destroyed their sentry posts and an improvised explosive device (IED) factory, and disposed of explosives on major routes.

    “They also recovered IED detonators, CCTV cameras, and metal fragments prepared for bomb-making.”

    In the Niger Delta, the troops destroyed illegally refined products, arresting two suspects with over 2,500 litres of stolen petroleum products in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states.

    In Imo State, troops discovered illegally refining sites containing more than 700 litres of crude oil and refined products, which were destroyed in line with standard procedures.

    According to the source, troops have also intensified arms recoveries, “arresting two armed suspects in Delta State who were found with two local pistols, a pump-action rifle, cartridges, and mobile phones.”

    The source stated that the rescued victims were handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families, assuring that “the Army will continue to dismantle criminal networks, creating a safer environment to boost agriculture and support the Federal Government’s food security.

    In a related operation, troops of 8 Division Garrison killed a terrorist at Gidan Garkuwa in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, recovering an AK-47 rifle and rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

    “Similarly, troops of 1 Brigade made contact with armed groups at Magazu in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, leading to the recovery of motorcycles and military uniforms,” the source said.

    The source noted that the coordinated operations have “significantly weakened terrorist mobility and logistics”, fostering a safer environment that will enhance agricultural activities in the region.

    According to the source, the troops’ onslaught in the Northcentral region has prevented criminals’ free movement and secured major roads for commuters.

    “Accordingly, troops thwarted criminal activities in Plateau State by foiling armed robbery on the Jos-Bauchi Road and responding to attempted cattle rustling in Mangu Local Government Area.”

    Onumajuru explained that instead of ransom, the military operates a national Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programme, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the Office of the National Security Adviser, designed for repentant fighters who surrender and show readiness to reintegrate into society.

    According to him, the DDR programme is coordinated under Operation Safe Corridor in Gombe State for the Northeast and in Zamfara State for the Northwest “to provide an alternative route for bandits who want to abandon criminality. They undergo detailed profiling to determine their culpability. Those found guilty face the law, while others are transferred to DDR centres for rehabilitation’’.

    Onumajuru added that some individuals were conscripted by criminal groups and may not be culpable. Such cases, he said, are handled with care through the profiling.

    He stressed the need for border communities to play an active role in securing the nation’s frontiers. “Communities must feel a sense of belonging and responsibility to help strengthen Nigeria’s borders,” he said.

  • Troops eliminate 2 Boko Haram commanders, 7 others in Borno

    Troops eliminate 2 Boko Haram commanders, 7 others in Borno

    Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in collaboration with the Air Component, have eliminated nine Boko Haram terrorists, including two top commanders in Borno.

    A credible source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the feat was recorded in separate operations that foiled terrorists’ attacks on Bita and Wulgo between Aug. 21 and Aug. 22.

    According to the military source, those killed included the commanders identified as Abu Nazir, the Munzir of Juye, and Abu Fatima, the Munzir of Koloram.

    “They were neutralised during a fierce gun duel at Wulgo axis.

    “Troops also recovered AK-47 rifles, a cache of ammunition, and six motorcycles belonging to the insurgents,” he said.

    The military high command lauded the troops for the operational success and urged them to sustain the momentum in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign, despite daunting challenges.

    (NAN)

  • Troops dislodge armed herders, recover rifle in Benue

    Troops dislodge armed herders, recover rifle in Benue

    Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have dislodged armed herders and recovered an automatic rifle in Benue.

    Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer, OPWS stated this in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday in Makurdi.

    Zubairu stated that on Wednesday, the troops during their routine farm patrol at Mbakyior Outpost and Agidi Community Gwer East Local Government Area,  recovered an AK-47 rifle with mounted magazine.

    He said they recovered the rifle at a suspected crossing point reportedly used by armed herders at Mbakyior community.

    Read Also: Troops kill ‘notorious, bandit leader’ in Sokoto

    “Upon sighting the advancing troops, the armed herders started to flee and opened fire in an attempt to resist interception.

    “In a swift and coordinated response, OPWS troops returned fire forcing the hostile elements to disengage and flee the area.

    “During subsequent search of the scene, an AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition abandoned by the fleeing armed herders were recovered,” he said.

    The statement further stated that security forces had continued to patrol the area to deter further incursions, reinforce civilian confidence, and continue with their socio-economic activities in the area.

    The statement also stated that the  Force Commander, OPWS, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara had commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and tactical discipline during the engagement.

    Gara urged them to remain alert, proactive, and responsive to actionable intelligence provided by local communities.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that peace and security prevailed not only in Benue but also in Taraba, and Nasarawa State.

    (NAN)

  • Army foils bandits planned massacre of villagers in Zamfara

    Army foils bandits planned massacre of villagers in Zamfara

    • Troops thwart insurgents’ ambush, recover arms, ammunition in Yobe, Borrno
    • NAF airstrikes killed 592 terrorists, 372 assets destroyed in eight months, says Air Chief
    • Zulum urges increased air power to combat insurgents

    Troops of Operation Fansan  Yamma (OPFY) have foiled bandits planned to attack villagers in Zamfara State.

    The troops killed dozens of terrorists in a coordinated air and ground assault at Gando Forest in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

    An attempted ambush by Boko Haram terrorists in Kareto was thwarted by troops from Operation HADIN KAI’s 145 Battalion, leading to the recovery of weapons and killing of insurgents.

    Sources said the ambush was orchestrated on Monday.

    The terrorists first detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and opened fire on the troops.

    Also, in the Northeast, no fewer than 592 terrorists have been killed and 372 assets destroyed in several airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in the past eight months.

    The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, made this known yesterday during a visit to Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, in Maiduguri.

    In a statement, the Information Officer of the OPFY, Captain David Adewusi, said: ”The OPFY troops will continue to hunt the adversaries down anywhere they gather or move,’’ the statement read.

    Captain Adewusi also said the operation followed a credible intelligence showing convergence of a large number of terrorists loyal to the late Halilu Buzu and Alhaji Beti in the forest, where they were preparing to launch a reprisal attack on Bukkuyum farming communities in Zamfara.

    “Intelligence gatherings indicated that the assault was aimed at avenging their recent defeat in clashes with security forces and hybrid units where they suffered serious defects,’’ the statement noted.

    The troops of OPFY under Sector 2 further intercepted and eliminated the terrorists who were fleeing from the aerial bombardment.

    Read Also: Amaechi: how Fayemi and I began opposition coalition

    In Yobe and Borno states, the soldiers executed anti-ambush drills, outflanked the attackers, and killed scores of them.

    They recovered a PKT automatic anti-aircraft machine gun, an AK-47 rifle, four AK-47 magazines, and a large quantity of 7.62 ammunition, among others.

    In a separate operation, troops from the 233 Battalion and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) of Sector II engaged terrorists at Sassawa village in Yobe State and killed two insurgents. They recovered one AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and 23 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

    Air Marshal Abubakar, said: “This year, our air war is faster, sharper, and more surgical. We are taking out high-value targets, crippling their logistics, and hunting down every cell that threatens the peace of the Northeast.”

    He said the feat was achieved through upgraded fleet and precision night-strike capabilities, executing 798 combat sorties that clocked over 1,500  flight hours in the theatre of operation.

    The NAF Chief further said: “From Gonori to Rann, Dikwa to Damboa, Azir to Mallam Fatori, NAF airpower has pounded terrorist strongholds with coordinated day-and-night operations, delivering devastating strikes in some of the most difficult terrain.’’

    The AM commended several initiatives of the Borno State Government, including the ‘Borno Model’, a community-driven, non-kinetic engagement combined with decisive military action, which experts have deemed a winning formula in the counter-insurgency campaign.

    “We are winning this war in the air, on the ground, and in the hearts of the people,” he assured.

    He reassured that NAF’s operations were as much about protecting civilians and destroying enemy capabilities.

     Zulum commended the NAF for its sustained air support in degrading terrorist capabilities and protecting communities.

    He said: “The Nigerian Air Force has been a steadfast partner in our fight against insurgency.

    “Your operations have saved countless lives and allowed our communities to begin rebuilding. The people of Borno State recognise your sacrifices and stand firmly behind you.”

    The Nation reports that the NAF has also achieved significant success recently in Zamfara State, where its airstrikes eliminated over 400 bandits in the area.

    Zulum also called for more air power to degrade the Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.

    The governor made the appeal during a meeting.

    Zulum, who acknowledged the Air Force’s contributions to security, including providing air cover for ground troops and humanitarian aid, however, reemphasised that more air power is needed, particularly in difficult terrains.

  • Troops thwart insurgent ambush, recover arms, ammunition in Borno, Yobe

    Troops thwart insurgent ambush, recover arms, ammunition in Borno, Yobe

    An attempted ambush by Boko Haram terrorists in Kareto was thwarted by troops from Operation HADIN KAI’s 145 Battalion, leading to a significant recovery of weapons and the neutralisation of numerous insurgents.

    Security sources disclosed that the ambush was orchestrated on Monday.

    The terrorists first detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and then opened fire on the troops.

    However, the soldiers quickly executed anti-ambush drills, outflanked the attackers, and neutralised scores of them on the spot.

    Read Also: NAF foils terror attack on troops in Borno, kill several terrorists

    Following the successful defence, troops recovered a cache of weapons, including a PKT automatic anti-aircraft machine gun, an AK-47 rifle, four AK-47 magazines, and a large quantity of 7.62 ammunition.

    Other recovered items included two 36 Hand Grenades, a motorcycle, blankets, and various communication and personal items.

    In a separate operation, troops from the 233 Battalion and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) of Sector II engaged terrorists at Sassawa village in Yobe State.

    After a fierce gunfight, two insurgents were neutralised. The troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and 23 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

  • Troops rescue 11 hostages, recover arms in major offensive in Benue, Taraba

    Troops rescue 11 hostages, recover arms in major offensive in Benue, Taraba

    Troops of the Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have rescued 11 kidnapped victims and recovered a cache of arms and ammunition in a coordinated offensive across parts of Benue and Taraba States.

    A credible military source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), that the daring operation was conducted by troops of Sector I Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), between Saturday and Sunday.

    He added that the operation was led by the Commander, Col. KO Bukoye with aerial support from the Air Component and blocking maneuvers by Sector III in Gindin Mangoro, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba.

    According to the source, the simultaneous assault targeted criminal hideouts in Tse-Ahur and Chito general areas of Ukum Local Government of Benue.

    “The operation, which demonstrated strategic joint-force coordination, resulted in a successful engagement with suspected kidnappers.

    “Upon contact, the troops overwhelmed the adversaries with superior firepower, leading to the arrest of two suspects while others fled, abandoning both captives and weapons.

    “A follow-up search-and-rescue mission led to the recovery of 11 hostages, comprising four women and seven men. All victims received medical attention and are being processed for reunification with their families.

    “Items recovered from the criminal enclave included four FN rifles, three G3 rifles, four AK-47 rifles, one PKT machine gun, one locally fabricated dane gun, and multiple magazines and rounds of various calibres.

    “Troops also recovered smoke canisters and fetish charms,” he said.

    The source revealed that the operation culminated in the destruction of the bandits’ camp and logistical infrastructure, thereby denying the criminals freedom of action in the region.

    He said the Force Commander OPWS, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, who was on ground to oversee the mission, commended the troops for their gallantry and tactical discipline.

    “He reaffirmed the commitment of OPWS to rooting out criminal elements in line with the strategic directive of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the broader vision of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    “Gara also appreciated the CDS and Service Chiefs for their continued support, noting that recent gains were due to prompt deployment of resources, effective inter-agency collaboration, and sustained operational momentum.

    “He assured that troops would maintain pressure on criminal elements and intensify efforts to restore lasting peace across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa,” he added.

    (NAN)

  • Troops, DSS kill 45 terrorists in major operation in Niger

    Troops, DSS kill 45 terrorists in major operation in Niger

    In a coordinated offensive against banditry, troops of the Nigerian Army and hybrid forces, backed by intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), neutralised at least 45 terrorists in Iburu village, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

    The Nation gathered that the operation took place on Friday evening, following credible intelligence that a large number of armed bandits on motorcycles were advancing towards Iburu and nearby communities to launch attacks.

    Acting swiftly, the DSS alerted nearby troops, leading to an immediate military response. A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in heavy casualties among the terrorists.

    “Villagers said they counted at least 40 dead bodies believed to be those of the bandits,” a security source confirmed, adding that several of the attackers’ motorcycles were also destroyed.

    However, the operation was not without losses. Two members of the hybrid forces—local fighters working alongside the military—were killed in the exchange, while four others sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment in the state capital.

    The offensive highlights the growing impact of intelligence-led operations in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. The DSS has received commendation for its recent tactical successes, with this latest intervention seen as critical in averting what could have been a deadly assault on rural communities.

    Friday’s encounter also comes months after the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, raised concerns over terrorist activity around the Babanna border, where his men narrowly escaped an ambush after seizing 500 jerrycans of petrol meant for smugglers aiding terrorists.

    The latest development underscores the persistent threat facing parts of Niger State and the importance of synergy between intelligence agencies and combat units. Residents of Iburu and surrounding villages are now returning to calm, thanks to the swift intervention and bravery of the joint security forces—a clear example of how real-time intelligence and rapid deployment can help protect vulnerable communities.

    Read Also: Troops kill ‘notorious, bandit leader’ in Sokoto

    Recently, Catholic Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese, John Bakeni, has lauded the DSS and the Nigerian Army for successfully rescuing Reverend Father Alphonsus Afina, who was kidnapped on June 1 by Boko Haram insurgents.

    Father Afina’s kidnapping in Gworza, Borno State, had grabbed global headlines, as he had served as a priest in Alaska from September 2017 through 2024. Kidnapped alongside the priest were, at the time, an unspecified number of fellow travellers on the Liman Kara-Gwoza road in Gwoza LGA of Borno State.

    Father Afina and 10 women were rescued by DSS operatives in the State. The operatives were supported by troops of the Nigerian Army. No ransom was paid for the rescued victims.

    This was just as DSS officers in Zamfara State, also with support from troops of the Nigerian Army, recently rescued 32 kidnap victims in Shinkafi LGA of the state. Security sources disclosed that the rescued victims included 27 women and five young boys, who had spent between two and four months in captivity. 

  • Troops kill ‘notorious, bandit leader’ in Sokoto

    Troops kill ‘notorious, bandit leader’ in Sokoto

    The Nigerian Army says troops of Operation Fansan Yanma have killed a notorious bandit leader identified as Dan Dari Biyar during a clearance operation in the western axis of Sabon Birni LGA of Sokoto state.

    According to Zagazola Makama, counter-insurgency expert, security sources said the bandit kingpin was killed on Thursday while attempting to collect a ransom from relatives of kidnapped victims in the forest corridor between Turtsawa, Mazau, and Zango villages.

    The operation was part of an intensified military campaign to flush out bandits and dismantle their strongholds in the region.

    Read Also: Terrorists kill four soldiers in fresh attack on Shiroro communities

    The raid was conducted by a joint force comprising Nigerian Army troops and local security volunteers operating under the Sokoto State Government’s community protection initiative.

    Arms, ammunition, and communication devices were recovered at the scene.

    Dan Dari Biyar was reportedly based deep within the Tidibale forest, from where he launched coordinated attacks on communities in Lalle, Tsamaye, and parts of Gwaronyo, including the razing of Gidan Sale village along the Gundumi axis.

    The suspect, whose nickname was derived from his infamous catchphrase “I prefer N500 to a Hausa man,” was known for his brutality against kidnap victims, often mocking them before demanding large sums in ransom.

    He has been linked to multiple attacks, ambushes, and acts of arson across the Sokoto East senatorial zone.

    Troops are reportedly on the pursuit of fleeing members of the gang.

  • Troops kill scores of terrorists, nabs suspects in nationwide operations

    Troops kill scores of terrorists, nabs suspects in nationwide operations

    The Nigerian Army says its troops have killed scores of terrorists and apprehended several others in series of recent coordinated and intelligence-driven operations across the country.

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

    Anele said the troops had between July 22 and 24, neutralised seven terrorists, arrested 10 criminal suspects, received 19 surrendered terrorist family members, and recovered assorted arms, ammunition, and logistics equipment in multiple theatres of operation.

    In Borno, she said the troops of 151 Task Force Battalion ambushed and neutralised two ISWAP/JAS terrorists in Bula Daburu Village, capturing logistics items including eight bicycles, bags of food supplies, and mats.

    Anele also revealed that troops of 222 Battalion neutralised one terrorist during an ambush ahead of Alau Dam in Konduga Local Government Area.

    She added that 19 family members of terrorists comprising seven adult females and 12 children, surrendered to 202 Battalion in Bama, citing unbearable conditions in terrorist enclaves.

    “In Niger, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1 and 2, in coordination with air component, neutralised scores of terrorists at Mahula Village and captured two AK-47 rifles, 18 motorcycles, and ammunition.

    In Zamfara, troops of 1 Brigade neutralised three terrorists in Maradun Local Government Area, recovering two AK-47 rifles, motorcycles, and communication devices.

    “Eight motorcycles were also destroyed in Anka Local Government Area while 78 rustled livestock were recovered and handed over to appropriate authorities,” she said.

    In Plateau, Anele said the troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN, apprehended high-profile suspects including Dayabu Idris and Ardo Forof Ardo Habibu Mohammed for their involvement in killings, kidnappings, and attacks on security personnel.

    She added that troops also recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and arrested three additional suspects linked to the killing of a cattle herder in Jos East.

    “Elsewhere, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, neutralised one kidnapper and rescued three victims in Gbise Town.

    Read Also: Troops foil terrorist attacks, neutralise dozens in Zamfara-Niger axis

    “In Enugu State, two kidnap suspects were arrested in Akwuke Forest, while one suspect was neutralised during a follow-up operation, and their hideout was destroyed.

    “The Nigerian Army also arrested two suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers, one in Ngala Local Government Area of Borno and another in Chibok, with communication devices, food items, and over ₦140,000 in cash.

    “These arrests disrupted the supply chain of terrorist groups in the region.

    “The Nigerian Army remains resolute and professional in its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity, protecting citizens, and degrading all forms of terrorism and criminality across the country,” she said.

    (NAN)

  • Troops arrest 62 suspected oil thieves, recover 350,000 litres of stolen products

    Troops arrest 62 suspected oil thieves, recover 350,000 litres of stolen products

    The troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have arrested 62 suspected economic saboteurs, deactivated 14 illegal refining sites, seized five boats and confiscated over 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products in the Niger Delta region.

    The Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Nigerian Army, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, who confirmed the feats on Sunday, said in Rivers State, around an abandoned wellhead at Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West Local Government Area (LGA), troops deactivated six illegal refining sites.

    He said six large ovens, reservoirs, and receivers containing approximately 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 21,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), were handled in line with subsisting operational mandate.

    He named other items recovered at the site as a generator set, welding machine, and several shovels.

    Danjuma said around Obiafor in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA), several illegal refining sites were dismantled by the troops.

    Read Also: Buhari family expresses gratitude to Tinubu, Nigerians, global leaders for outpouring of support

    According to him three dugout pits were discovered, two filled with over 5,700 litres of stolen crude and one containing unquantified stolen AGO. 

    He said: “Additionally, two boats loaded with ten sacks of condensates were intercepted at the riverside in Obiafor. Troops also intercepted a Sienna vehicle with no registration number, loaded with 32 sacks filled with over 1,920 litres of stolen AGO, at Elele Town in Ikwerre LGA. 

    “Likewise, an illegal connection point was discovered, along with a dugout pit filled with over 1,200 litres of condensates. Recovered items included three 150-meter-long hoses, eight metal drums, and several ovens set up for illicit refining”.

    Danjuma said in Bayelsa State, around Biseni in Yenagoa LGA, troops deactivated four illegal refining sites and four dugout pits. 

    He said over 10,000 litres of stolen AGO were confiscated, and five cooking ovens were dismantled adding that the troops were also combing the creeks and rivulets to crack down on economic saboteurs.

    Danjuma said following a tip-off, troops projected force from Javel Sharp Sand Waterside to Gana Road in Sapele LGA of Delta State, where two suspected oil thieves were apprehended. 

    “They were arrested with two boats loaded with 30 cellophane bags filled with over 1,500 litres of illegally refined AGO”, he said.

    In Akwa Ibom State, he said the troops had continued to dominate the operational landscape, effectively denying criminal elements freedom of action.

    Danjuma quoted the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major-General Emmanuel Eric Emekah as commending the troops for their successes and charging them to sustain the operational tempo to continue denying economic saboteurs any freedom of action.