By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops have neutralised scores of terrorists, apprehended dozens of suspects and rescued several kidnapped victims nationwide between May 28 and June 4.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed this during a briefing on ongoing military operations across the country.
Onoja said troops sustained coordinated land and air operations against terrorists, kidnappers, gunrunners, economic saboteurs and other criminal elements.
In the North-East, he said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI apprehended a suspected kidnapper, 10 terrorist collaborators and informants, and rescued five escapees from terrorist enclaves.
He said troops also neutralised a terrorist, recovered 43 rounds of ammunition, one magazine, a solar panel, mobile phones and other items.
In the North-West, Onoja said the troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA neutralised three terrorists, apprehended one informant and one notorious terrorist kingpin.
According to him, troops also recovered one AK-47 rifle, one loaded magazine, 12 rounds of ammunition and destroyed terrorist camps.
Under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, Onoja said the troops repelled an ambush in Niger State, neutralised scores of terrorists and recovered 15 motorcycles and 253 rounds of ammunition.
He said troops also arrested one wanted terrorist informant linked to previous attacks in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger.
“In Kaduna State, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE rescued five kidnapped passengers and evacuated two injured victims for medical treatment.
“Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralised one terrorist, arrested 10 suspects and rescued two kidnap victims in Kogi, Nasarawa and Taraba states.
“Recovered items included one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of ammunition, seven explosives, three motorcycles and two vehicles,” he said.
In the South-South, Onoja said the troops of Operation DELTA SAFE arrested seven suspected kidnappers and recovered five dane guns, one fabricated pump-action gun and three motorcycles.
According to him, troops also foiled planned kidnappings and apprehended suspects linked to the murder of a farmer during a failed abduction attempt.
“In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA arrested five suspected IPOB/ESN members and rescued village chiefs held hostage in Ebonyi,” he added.
Onoja said the operations significantly degraded criminal capabilities and enhanced security across the country.
He assured Nigerians that the military would sustain efforts to rescue citizens in captivity and protect lives and property nationwide.
The defence spokesman urged citizens to provide credible information to security agencies through appropriate channels, including the toll-free line, 193.
He said the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their resilience, professionalism and commitment across operational theatres.
(NAN)
