Military frees 11 abducted individuals, detains alleged extremist

The Nigerian Army has announced the rescue of at least 11 kidnapped victims and the arrest of several terror and criminal suspects in a series of coordinated operations conducted across the country within the last 24 hours.

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According to a statement released by the Nigerian Army on Tuesday via its official handle, troops achieved significant successes in multiple theatres, dealing decisive blows to terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims, and disrupting criminal networks.

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In the North-East, a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics courier was arrested in Ngamdu, Borno State, and reportedly confessed to supporting insurgent activities in the Gubio and Magumeri areas.

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This arrest is part of the Army's intensified counter-terrorism operations in the region, aimed at combating terrorist activities.

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Troops also apprehended two suspected collaborators linked to a terrorist kingpin in Monguno, and recovered items including 4 android phones, 3 wristwatches, a power bank, 2 pairs of terrorist uniforms, one mudu of garri, and ₦135,500.

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The suspect's wife and three children were also taken into custody for further investigation, as part of the ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist networks.

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In Bauchi State, troops rescued six kidnapped victims, with the Army stating that the rescue efforts reinforced ongoing search-and-rescue operations across affected communities.

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In Yobe State, a truck was intercepted in Nguru, which was found to be carrying large consignments of medical supplies intended for illicit cross-border movement, despite being falsely declared as carrying beverages.

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The recovered items included cartons of antibiotics, injections, syrups, bandages, and other pharmaceutical products, and the driver and three occupants are currently in custody.

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In the North-West, a suspected drug peddler was arrested in Katsina State, in possession of 487 grams of cannabis sativa.

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Troops in Zamfara State responded to a distress call, rescuing two abducted NDLEA personnel, neutralising threats, and apprehending one terrorist, while the injured personnel have been evacuated for medical attention.

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Operations in the North-Central led to gains in Plateau State, where troops thwarted cattle rustling attempts, recovering 92 cattle and rescuing an injured herder.

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Two suspects were also arrested with a pistol, ammunition, phones, and cash, as part of the ongoing efforts to combat crime in the region.

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In the Federal Capital Territory, troops raided an illegal mining site and recovered equipment, including pumping machines, shovels, and diggers.

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In Rivers State, troops uncovered and destroyed illegal refining infrastructure containing thousands of litres of stolen crude and refined products.

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In Edo State, troops working with other security agencies arrested a suspected kidnapper, with the Army stating that the operations reflect enhanced inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-driven engagements across the country.

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The Army reaffirmed its position, stating that it remains unwavering in its resolve to defend the nation's territorial integrity and protect lives and property.

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The Army also urged citizens to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies, to support its efforts in combating crime and terrorism.