The Defence Headquarters has reported significant successes in the ongoing operations by Nigerian troops across various theatres, revealing that in the past week alone, 40 terrorists were eliminated, and 259 individuals, including criminals, were apprehended across the country. The update was provided by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
Maj.-Gen. Buba disclosed that the Armed Forces executed synchronized strikes involving ground and air forces, targeting terrorist enclaves and hideouts. The combination of these coordinated efforts resulted in the neutralization of over 40 terrorists and the apprehension of 191 individuals. Additionally, the troops successfully recovered 72 assorted weapons, 338 assorted ammunition, and rescued 80 kidnapped hostages during the week.
In the North East region, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralized seven terrorists, arrested eight, and rescued 19 kidnapped hostages. In the North Central, the troops of Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke neutralized four terrorists, arrested 16, and rescued eight kidnapped hostages, while also recovering arms and ammunition.
In the North West, troops of Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch neutralized nine terrorists, arrested six others, and rescued 15 kidnapped hostages. Notably, the recovered items included four AK-47 rifles, two dane guns, 40 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 84 rounds of 12.7mm ammo, and 19 magazines, among others.
The Defence Media Operations Director highlighted the air component’s crucial role, citing a close air support operation on December 16 in which air interdictions were conducted on the enclaves of two terrorist leaders, Rabe and Alhaji Maidawa, in Danmusa and Kankara local government areas of Katsina State. The targets, identified as active in bandit activities, were successfully attacked with rockets and cannons, resulting in the neutralization of several terrorists and the destruction of their structures and logistics.
Furthermore, Operation Whirl Punch’s air component conducted air interdictions on withdrawing terrorists, trailing and engaging them with precision munition. The Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the neutralization of several terrorists, including key leadership figures. The air component also provided close support and evacuation for troops in distress during these operations.
