Military Operations Yield Significant Successes Across Nigeria
In a recent update, the Defence Headquarters announced that security forces have successfully freed 117 hostages and apprehended 150 suspects involved in various criminal activities nationwide over the past week.
Comprehensive Crackdown on Terrorism and Crime
The detained individuals include alleged terrorists, wanted offenders, and suspected oil thieves, apprehended during coordinated operations spanning multiple regions. According to Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, the revamped military tactics have created a safer environment for farmers to continue their agricultural work without disruption. This protective effort is planned to continue throughout the current farming season and beyond.
North East: Disrupting Terrorist Networks and Rescuing Hostages
In the volatile North East, troops arrested 11 collaborators linked to terrorist groups and rescued five abductees. Notably, a member of the Abu Ayuba faction surrendered voluntarily in Kwayari village, Kaga Local Government Area, Borno State, on August 20. Security forces also seized a cache of ammunition, logistical supplies, illicit substances, petroleum products, vehicles, and motorcycles. Additionally, several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were safely neutralized in Abadam, Gwoza, and Mobbar LGAs.
North West: Significant Arrests and Hostage Rescues
Operations in the North West resulted in the capture of 35 suspected terrorists and the liberation of 76 hostages. The military recovered firearms, ammunition, motorcycles, and cash amounting to N321,000 from the suspects.
North Central: Targeting Criminal Elements
In the North Central region, security personnel detained 49 criminals and freed 36 hostages. Confiscated items included weapons, ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, Boefeng radios, and N89,400 in cash.
South East: Arrests of Suspected IPOB/ESN Members
Troops in the South East apprehended nine individuals suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) across Okigwe and Enugu South LGAs in Imo and Enugu States, as well as Ohafia and Ihiala LGAs in Abia and Anambra States respectively.
South South: Combating Oil Theft and Illegal Refining
In the South South, 48 suspects, including 33 alleged oil thieves, were arrested. The military dismantled 12 illicit oil refining sites, recovering stolen petroleum products valued at approximately N443 million. The haul included 294,500 litres of crude oil and 188,450 litres of automotive gas oil (AGO). Additionally, 13 crude oil processing ovens, 19 dugout pits, 8 boats, and 16 storage tanks were destroyed.
Other seized equipment comprised pumping machines, mobile phones, three tricycles, and four vehicles. Alongside the arrests, assorted firearms, ammunition, and explosives were also recovered.
Additional Arrests and Rescues in Delta and Rivers States
Security forces apprehended 13 more suspects and rescued two kidnapped individuals in Sapele, Aniocha North, and Ughelli LGAs of Delta State, as well as Ahoada and Onelga LGAs in Rivers State.
These operations underscore the military’s ongoing commitment to restoring peace and security across Nigeria’s diverse regions, ensuring the safety of citizens and the protection of vital economic activities.
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