Last week’s operations in the Northern zone of the country saw significant success as troops eliminated 188 terrorists and apprehended 330 individuals. Additionally, 133 kidnapped persons were successfully rescued by deployed troops nationwide during this period.
Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed these achievements in a statement released on Friday. He highlighted that these recent accomplishments have bolstered the troops’ position in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
“The armed forces are resolutely committed to eradicating terrorists, quelling insecurity, and ensuring the safety of citizens. Consequently, we are inflicting heavy losses on the terrorists,” stated the release.
Throughout the week, the military executed decisive actions resulting in the neutralization of 188 terrorists, the arrest of 330 suspects, and the liberation of 133 abducted individuals. “The military stands well-equipped and steadfast in combating terrorism, with numerous terrorist leaders eliminated. We remain dedicated to providing security for our citizens using all available means at our disposal,” affirmed Buba.
In the ongoing crackdown on oil theft, 36 suspects were apprehended, and stolen crude oil worth N637 million was recovered. “Troops in the South-South region successfully prevented oil theft amounting to an estimated sum of N637,710,310.00. Additionally, 51 dugout pits, 24 boats, 21 storage tanks, and 4 vehicles used in illicit activities were discovered and destroyed. Further recoveries include 28 cooking ovens, 21 illegal refining sites, 672,350 litres of stolen crude oil, and 90,530 litres of illegally refined AGO,” detailed Buba.
Moreover, the troops seized 270 weapons and 5,083 rounds of ammunition, comprising various firearms such as AK47 rifles, locally fabricated guns, Dane guns, automatic pump action guns, pistols, and explosives. Additionally, assorted ammunition, magazines, communication devices, vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, mobile phones, and monetary items were confiscated.
Notably, between January and March 2024, the troops recorded significant achievements, including the elimination of 2,351 terrorists, arrest of 2,308 suspects, rescue of 1,241 kidnapped hostages, and recovery of stolen crude oil worth N20 billion in the first quarter of the year.
