Troops launch multi-state crackdown, 12 rescued

In a sustained offensive against criminal elements across Nigeria, troops have rescued 12 kidnapped victims in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Nasarawa State.

Two terrorists were eliminated, and two others arrested during the operations, according to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye.

In a statement released on Friday, Kangye said the troops also recovered arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and vehicles from the terrorist hideouts.

According to the statement, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke conducted multiple raids between July 30 and August 3, 2025. A suspected gunrunner was arrested in Wukari LGA of Taraba State, along with 15 other criminals in Agatu, Katsina-Ala, and Jalingo LGAs of Benue and Taraba States.

Operations also extended to parts of Kogi State, where arms, ammunition, and ₦842,100 in cash were recovered. All suspects are in custody and under investigation.

In the North-East, ground forces, supported by air components and hybrid security teams, conducted aggressive strikes in Borno and Yobe States. The operations resulted in the elimination of multiple terrorists, the arrest of five others, and the rescue of two kidnapped victims. Seven terrorist collaborators were also apprehended in subsequent follow-up operations.

The statement said troops of Operation Delta Safe foiled oil theft valued at over ₦73.2 million, seizing 63,824 litres of stolen crude oil and 11,190 litres of illegally refined DPK.

It said four illegal oil refining sites were dismantled, and key equipment—including boats, pumping machines, and storage tanks—was destroyed. Nine oil thieves were arrested, while arms, explosives, and ₦3.6 million in cash were recovered.

According to to the statement, In Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto States, Operation Fasan Yamma troops neutralised several terrorists and rescued multiple kidnapped victims during raids conducted between July 29 and August 3.

It said troops rescued two hostages in Zamfara, three in Sokoto, and arrested several armed extremists across the region. One wounded victim was evacuated for medical treatment.

It said troops of Operation Safe Haven responded to terrorist threats in Mangu, Riyom, and Jos East LGAs. They killed several terrorists, arrested one criminal, and rescued three victims. Additional arrests were made in Jos North and Bassa LGAs.

It stated that troops of Operation Udoka arrested four suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) and a kidnapper in Enugu, Abia, and Anambra States. Weapons and a vehicle were recovered.

Major General Kangye emphasized that Nigeria’s armed forces, in conjunction with other security agencies and hybrid forces, are working in synergy to secure the nation.

He reaffirmed their commitment to protecting civilians, rescuing victims, and supporting displaced communities returning to normal life, particularly in the Northeast

“Our gallant troops, in conjunction with other security agencies and hybrid forces, will continue to work together to ensure national security,” Kangye stated.