The Nigerian Army have intensified operations across various theatres, neutralising several terrorists, arresting 29 suspects and recovering assorted weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, narcotics and stolen crude oil in the past few days. The coordinated operations were conducted in the North East, North Central, South East and South South zones, reflecting sustained momentum against criminal elements across the country.

In the North East, troops of 26 Task Force Brigade and 222 Battalion recorded decisive successes against ISWAP/JAS terrorists in Gwoza and Konduga LGAs of Borno State. The operations led to the neutralisation of two terrorists and recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, three hand grenades, six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two fragmental jackets, two camouflage uniforms, and two motorcycles. Additionally, troops also intercepted a truck conveying 170 empty gas cylinders suspected to be linked with terrorist logistics movements.

In Taraba State, troops of 93 Battalion and Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE arrested six suspected terrorists and recovered one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, several rounds of ammunition, two motorcycles, mobile phones, narcotics and camouflage uniforms. Additionally, troops of Sector 1 OPWS at Tombo in Logo LGA neutralized one armed herder and recovered one AK-47 rifle and 14 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

In the North Central axis, troops in Nasarawa State arrested two armed suspects and recovered two locally fabricated pistols. Troops at Akwanga intercepted a vehicle loaded with 282 packs of substances suspected to be cannabis sativa, while operations in Sokoto State led to the arrest of four terrorists and recovery of one motorcycle, three mobile phones and assorted narcotics. Air Component strikes in Kebbi State further neutralised several terrorists and destroyed their hideouts in Sakaba LGA.

In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA arrested a suspected IPOB/ESN leader at Obollo-Afor Market in Udenu LGA of Enugu State. Items recovered from him included a mobile phone, a motorcycle key and cash. Similarly, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau State arrested three suspected drug dealers at Barkin Ladi for further investigation.

The South South region also recorded significant breakthroughs. Troops of 34 Artillery Brigade discovered and dismantled an illegal refining site at Ohaji/Egbema LGA of Imo State containing a receiver, three cooking drums and 32 sacks with about 5,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Two suspects were also arrested with 8 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, 4 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and a mobile phone linked to an earlier attack on a company’s facility. Likewise, troops in Delta State arrested two surveillance workers involved in vandalism of oil well heads and theft of vital components.

In Lagos, troops of 65 Battalion arrested eight suspects at Tarkwa community and seized assorted narcotics and illicit drugs, while troops in Eti-Osa apprehended a civilian dressed in military camouflage with two belts and two pairs of military trousers. All suspects and recovered exhibits are undergoing preliminary investigation for further action.