Forces neutralize 30 extremists, free multiple hostages in operation

Armed Forces of Nigeria troops have sustained their onslaught against terrorists and criminals, resulting in the deaths of over 30 terrorists, including high-value targets, across various regions. This development underscores the military's unrelenting efforts to degrade enemy capabilities.

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The coordinated operations, which took place between March 7 and March 12, also led to the rescue of dozens of abducted victims, highlighting the military's commitment to protecting civilians.

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Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed these details in a weekly brief on the military's operations in Abuja, shedding light on the successes achieved during this period. The brief provided insight into the scope and impact of the military's efforts to combat terrorism and crime.

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Operation HADIN KAI troops successfully disrupted key supply lines and curtailed terrorists' movements across Yobe, Borno, and Adamawa, apprehending several key operatives, including logistics suppliers, tax collectors, and informants. These arrests have dealt a significant blow to terrorist networks in the region.

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On March 9, troops recovered a cache of arms following repelled attacks in Mafa and Jere Local Government Areas of Borno, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing operations. The recovery of these arms has prevented them from falling into enemy hands.

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The following day, simultaneous assaults on FOB Tuba and Doro Baga were thwarted, demonstrating the military's preparedness and capability to respond to enemy aggression. This decisive action has boosted the morale of troops and bolstered security in the area.

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In Goniri, Yobe, troops repelled a multi-directional night attack, neutralising over 20 terrorists, including Abu Yusu, the Munzir of Dursula, while recovering weapons, IEDs, and ammunition. This operation has significantly degraded enemy capabilities in the region.

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Troops also rescued kidnapped victims and seized supplies meant for insurgents, further weakening terrorist networks and disrupting their ability to operate effectively. These seizures have limited the enemy's access to vital resources.

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In Adamawa, swift responses to distress calls in Madagali and Maiha Local Government Areas led to the recovery of 23 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) intended for terrorist operations. This recovery has prevented the misuse of these resources.

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Since 2015, Operation HADIN KAI has recorded the surrender of 122,843 insurgents, highlighting the sustained pressure on terrorist networks and the effectiveness of the military's strategy. This achievement underscores the military's commitment to combating terrorism.

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In North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA troops struck terrorists in Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, conducting key operations that have disrupted enemy activities. These operations have improved security and stability in the region.

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The rescue of abducted victims from Mpape-Kuyeri Forest along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor and the destruction of a terrorist enclave in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State were notable successes. These achievements demonstrate the military's capability to conduct complex operations.

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There was also the interception of ammunition and rustled cattle in Gudu and Dagozawa villages, further limiting the enemy's access to resources and weakening their ability to operate. These seizures have disrupted terrorist supply chains.

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In the North Central region, Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE, and WHIRL STROKE maintained pressure on criminal and terrorist elements across Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Bauchi, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Kogi States. The operations resulted in the neutralisation of terrorists and the recovery of arms.

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The rescue of multiple victims in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara, Riyom and Mangu Local Government Areas of Plateau, and the interception of explosives in Bauchi State were notable successes. These achievements highlight the military's commitment to protecting civilians and combating terrorism.

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Troops of Operations DELTA SAFE and UDO KA targeted criminal and separatist networks, including the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN), in the South-South and South-East regions. The operations resulted in the dismantling of illegal oil refining sites in Egbema West Local Government Area of Imo.

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Suspected kidnappers were also neutralised in Egoro Forest in Edo, and the disarming of IEDs along contested routes in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo improved civilian access and safety. These operations have enhanced security and stability in the region.

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Maj.-Gen. Onoja emphasised that the ongoing operations, despite the challenges, reflected the courage and professionalism of the armed forces. The military's determination to combat terrorism and crime has yielded significant results.

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Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff, commended the public for providing timely intelligence and reaffirmed the military's commitment to troop welfare, collaboration with other security agencies, and restoring lasting stability across the country. The military's efforts to engage with the public and build trust have been instrumental in its success.