The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reported a series of successful military operations across Nigeria, resulting in the neutralization of 140 terrorists, the arrest of 135 individuals, and the rescue of 76 kidnapped hostages. These achievements were disclosed on Thursday during a media briefing in Abuja by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba.
Arrests of Key IPOB Leaders in the South East
Major General Buba revealed that military efforts in the South East have yielded significant breakthroughs in combating separatist elements. Troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Orsu in Imo State conducted a targeted operation that led to the arrest of Pius Iguh, described as a founding member of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), an armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a follow-up operation, troops at FOB Amaruku arrested another key IPOB commander, Emmanuel Onwugu, in the Mbano Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State. These operations form part of ongoing military efforts to disrupt IPOB’s influence and restore security in the region.
Oil Theft Crackdown in the Niger Delta Region
The military spokesperson also highlighted progress in the fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta. According to General Buba, troops arrested 18 suspects involved in crude oil theft operations. He added that the military intercepted crude oil worth ₦1.75 billion during these operations, preventing further economic losses.
Buba noted that the crackdown on oil theft follows a presidential directive, which has already led to a significant increase in Nigeria’s oil production.
“Since the directive was issued, and with the establishment of dedicated commands, daily oil production has increased from around 1.1 million barrels per day to approximately 1.7 million barrels, with further growth expected by the end of the year,” Buba said.
The military remains focused on sustaining these efforts to ensure oil theft is eliminated, helping stabilize the nation’s economy.
Seizure of Arms, Ammunition, and Vehicles Across Operational Theatres
During the operations, troops recovered 241 assorted weapons and 3,254 rounds of ammunition from various theatres of operation nationwide. The detailed breakdown of items seized includes:
Weapons Recovered
- 141 AK-47 rifles
- 1 PKT machine gun
- 2 FN rifles
- 17 fabricated rifles
- 26 dane guns
- 13 pump-action shotguns
- 4 locally made pistols
- 1 Beretta pistol
- 2 bayonets
- 42 AK-47 magazines
Ammunition and Other Items Seized
- 2,016 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- 970 rounds of 7.62mm NATO rounds
- 33 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammunition
- 76 rounds of 9mm ammunition
- 113 live cartridges
- 2 Baofeng radios
- 3 vehicles
- 31 motorcycles
- 18 mobile phones
- Cash totaling ₦79,052,150 and $19
Military Vows to Sustain Momentum
Major General Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to maintaining national security and combating criminal activities, including terrorism, separatism, and oil theft.
“These achievements reflect the dedication and resilience of our troops. We are committed to securing the country and ensuring that peace and stability prevail,” he assured.
The Defence Headquarters has urged the public to cooperate with the military by providing credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations.
As the year draws to a close, the military remains optimistic about building on these successes and ensuring a more secure Nigeria.