Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant gains in the ongoing nationwide operations aimed at securing communities and ensuring the safe return of farmers as the rainy season approaches.
According to a statement released on Friday, military operations conducted between May 8 and 15 across various theatres led to the neutralization of scores of terrorists and the rescue of hundreds of kidnapped victims.
The operations were carried out in collaboration with hybrid forces, security agencies, and local communities, with intensified efforts in the North-East, North-West, North-Central, and South-South regions.
The statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, DDMO, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye detailed the operations as follows, in Niger State, two wanted extremists’ informants, Zakari Abubakar and Aliyu Musa, and an ammunition courier, Rufai Abdullahi, were arrested. Weapons, locally fabricated guns, motorcycles, and other logistics were recovered. Troops also dismantled terrorist camps and secured major routes to allow safe passage for farmers.
In Borno State, heightened operations in Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, and Damboa LGAs led to the surrender of several ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters. Troops rescued 17 kidnapped victims and recovered arms, ammunition, hand grenades, and extra magazines. Two terrorist logistics suppliers were also apprehended.
In Sokoto and Zamfara States, troops engaged in fierce battles with bandits, rescuing 129 kidnapped victims and recovering weapons, communication devices, and livestock. In Plateau and Kaduna, operations yielded the arrest of gunrunners, kidnappers, and criminals, with the recovery of arms, ammunition, and illicit drugs.
The South-South region also saw major success as troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft worth over N103 million. They recovered over 68,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 31,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, and dismantled 18 illegal refining sites. Fifteen suspects were arrested and several items, including boats, drums, and refining equipment, were seized.
The Defence Headquarters praised the courage and professionalism of troops and assured continued commitment to national security. It also acknowledged the critical role of local communities and media in sustaining operational momentum and intelligence gathering.
