The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced significant achievements in counterterrorism efforts across Nigeria over the past week. In a press briefing held on Thursday in Abuja, Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, detailed the results of various military operations aimed at combating insurgency and crime.
North-East: Operation Hadin Kai
In the North-East region, troops under Operation Hadin Kai achieved notable success, resulting in the deaths of 106 terrorists and the rescue of 103 abducted persons. Additionally, 1,760 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and their families surrendered to the authorities. The operation also led to the apprehension of 104 suspects, including individuals involved in terrorism and extremism.
North-Central: Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke
In the North-Central region, troops participating in Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke neutralized 12 insurgents, arrested 39 extremists, and rescued 39 hostages. The operations also resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of weapons, including 21 AK-47 rifles, 14 fabricated pistols, 15 Dane guns, 285 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and 200 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.
North-West: Operation Hadarin Daji
In the North-West, troops under Operation Hadarin Daji eliminated 22 terrorists, captured 23 others, and freed 32 hostages. The operations also led to the recovery of arms and N2.9 million in cash.
South-South: Operation Delta Safe
Troops in the Niger Delta, under Operation Delta Safe, conducted operations against illegal refining activities. They destroyed 36 illegal refining sites and reclaimed 802,200 litres of stolen crude oil, 121,900 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 450 litres of DPK. Additionally, 20 dugout pits, 24 boats, 34 storage tanks, 56 cooking ovens, two speedboats, 14 pumping machines, 18 drums, and 22 vehicles and motorcycles were seized. The operation also saw the arrest of 32 suspected oil thieves and violent extremists.
South-East: Operation Udoka
In the South-East, troops of Operation Udoka killed three terrorists, arrested 22 extremists, and rescued four abducted victims. Recovered items included one pump action gun, 31 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 23 cartridges, one baofeng radio, and six mobile phones.
All recovered items, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further action. The DHQ emphasized its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the country, urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces.