Military unleashes nationwide offensive, scores of terrorists killed

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian military has recorded fresh successes in its ongoing nationwide offensive against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, neutralising scores of terrorists, arresting dozens of suspects and rescuing several kidnapped victims within one week.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) disclosed the development on Friday, saying troops operating across multiple theatres sustained coordinated land and air operations between May 28 and June 4, dealing significant blows to criminal networks across the country.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, said the military offensive targeted terrorists, kidnappers, gunrunners, economic saboteurs and other criminal elements threatening national security.

In the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai arrested a suspected kidnapper, 10 terrorist collaborators and informants, while also rescuing five persons who escaped from terrorist enclaves. Troops further neutralised a terrorist and recovered ammunition, communication devices and other operational items.

In the North-West, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma eliminated three terrorists, apprehended a notorious terrorist kingpin and arrested additional suspects linked to terrorist activities. Security forces also recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition and dismantled several terrorist camps.

One of the most significant breakthroughs was recorded under Operation Savannah Shield, where troops successfully repelled an ambush in Niger State, neutralising scores of terrorists during the encounter. Security operatives also recovered 15 motorcycles and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, while a wanted terrorist informant linked to previous attacks in Borgu Local Government Area was arrested.

In Kaduna State, troops of Operation Enduring Peace rescued five kidnapped passengers and evacuated two injured victims for urgent medical treatment.

Similarly, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke operating across Kogi, Nasarawa and Taraba states neutralised a terrorist, arrested 10 suspects and rescued two kidnap victims. Recovered exhibits included an AK-47 rifle, magazines, explosives, motorcycles and vehicles.

The military also recorded successes in the South-South region, where troops of Operation Delta Safe arrested seven suspected kidnappers and foiled planned abductions. Security operatives further apprehended suspects linked to the murder of a farmer during a failed kidnap operation.

In the South-East, troops of Operation Udo Ka arrested five suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), while successfully rescuing village chiefs who had been held hostage in Ebonyi State.

Maj.-Gen. Onoja said the operations had significantly degraded the operational capabilities of criminal groups and improved security across affected communities.

He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain the momentum of ongoing operations until those held captive are rescued and criminal elements are brought to justice.

The defence spokesman also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, noting that timely information remains critical to the success of military operations nationwide.

He added that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, had commended troops for their courage, professionalism and commitment in the fight against insecurity across the country.