Nigerian Army Neutralises 18 Terrorists, Rescues Kidnap Victims in Nationwide Operations

In the past 48 hours, Nigerian Army troops across multiple theatres of operation have intensified offensive actions, resulting in the neutralisation of 18 terrorists, the rescue of 14 kidnapped victims, and the apprehension of 47 suspects, a credible source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.

The operations also yielded significant recoveries, including arms, ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, livestock, and other logistics.

North-East Operations

Troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion successfully repelled an ISWAP/JAS attack around Dutsen Nonu in Biu Local Government Area, neutralising 15 terrorists through coordinated ground and air engagements. Two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) were destroyed in the encounter.

Additionally, two ISWAP/JAS logistics suppliers were apprehended at the Customs General area in Maiduguri. Items recovered included nails suspected for IED fabrication, terrorists’ clothing, nets, insecticides, and shovels. Preliminary investigations confirmed their links to the terror network, and they were handed over to the 7 Military Intelligence Brigade.

North-West Operations

Troops under Operation FANSAN Yamma intervened in a communal clash in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa and intercepted terrorists in Zamfara and Kebbi, rescuing injured civilians and recovering a motorcycle.

In Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, troops alongside local hunters apprehended a suspected kidnapper at Godogodo village.

Central and South Operations

Under Operation Peace Shield, troops recovered 110 cows and 46 sheep after dislodging violent extremists in Wase LGA, Plateau State, with ongoing efforts to identify the rightful owners.

In Cross River, 11 migrants from Niger Republic travelling without valid documentation were intercepted in Yakurr Local Government Area and handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service.

In Edo State, troops of the 195 Battalion on Operation WABAIZIGAN arrested 33 suspected members of the Aiye cult during a snap check along Avielle Road in Etsako West LGA. Suspects were intercepted in two buses and a Lexus RX350. Recovered items included three pump-action guns, nine cartridges, cutlasses, 35 mobile phones, power banks, a WiFi device, two motorcycles, and face masks. The suspects reportedly confessed to returning from an initiation ceremony in Agbede Forest.

In Taraba State, Operation Whirl Stroke rescued two victims after a kidnap incident in Amadu town, Kurmi LGA, while two others escaped their abductors. Efforts continue to secure the safe return of the remaining victims.

The military source reiterated the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to sustaining operations nationwide to protect citizens and safeguard communities.