Nigerian troops dismantle terrorist cells, nab over 40 suspects — DHQ

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Nigerian troops neutralised scores of terrorists, arrested over 40 suspects and rescued at least nine kidnapped victims in nationwide operations between May 15 and May 21.

The troops sustained operational momentum during the period by dismantling insurgent camps, intercepting logistics supply chains, and recovering weapons and illicit materials.

This was revealed in a statement by Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja in a statement on Friday in Abuja, detailing operational successes recorded across various theatres.

Giving details of the operations, Onoja said in the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised two terrorists in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno and apprehended four suspected collaborators involved in cattle rustling.

Onoja added that several insurgents and their family members surrendered to troops, including two adult females and seven minors in Dikwa, as well as other individuals fleeing sustained military pressure.

“In the North-West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma neutralised at least four terrorists and arrested a major gunrunner supplying weapons to notorious bandit leaders.

“Troops also recovered one General Purpose Machine Gun, one AK-47 rifle, and 216 rounds of ammunition, while a kidnapped school pupil was rescued in Katsina State.

“Troops in Zamfara repelled attacks on communities and destroyed terrorist camps, forcing insurgents to flee their strongholds,” he said.

In the North-Central, Onoja said troops under Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace, and Whirl Stroke recorded significant gains against criminal networks.

He said troops arrested key suspects, including a gang leader and informants, and recovered N2.29 million suspected to be ransom proceeds.

“Troops in Plateau arrested five suspects, while seven kidnapped victims were rescued in Kogi.

“In Taraba, a gunrunner linked to the supply of 23 AK-47 rifles was apprehended, while two terrorists were neutralised during clearance operations,” he added.

In the South-South, Onoja said troops of Operation Delta Safe arrested at least nine suspected kidnappers and criminals across Edo and Cross River.

He said troops also dismantled illegal oil refining sites and seized about 3,000 litres of stolen crude oil, alongside vehicles used for transporting illicit petroleum products.

He further disclosed that troops of Operation Udo Ka in the South-East arrested four illegal miners, recovered a locally fabricated firearm, and repelled a mob attack without casualties.

The defence spokesman said troops also recovered several arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, G3 rifles, machine guns, and other combat equipment.

He said the Chief of Defence Staff commended troops for their professionalism, bravery, and resilience in the face of evolving security challenges.

Onoja reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible intelligence. (NAN)