The Nigerian Army has announced significant operational gains following coordinated multi-theatre operations conducted across the country within the last 24 hours, resulting in the neutralisation of three terrorists, the arrest of 20 suspects and the recovery of arms, ammunition and other illicit items.
In a statement outlining the outcomes of the operations, the Army said one family member of a terrorist also surrendered during the period under review, as troops intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and criminal syndicates nationwide.
In the North East and North West, troops reportedly neutralised two terrorists in Zamfara State and repelled elements of ISWAP/JAS in Borno State. Recovered items included one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle, one PKT machine gun with 70 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammunition and assorted logistics materials.
Troops also intercepted five fabricated rifles from a suspected gunrunner in Kaduna State, arrested logistics suppliers linked to criminal elements in Borno and Kogi States, and safely diffused an improvised explosive device in Zamfara, averting potential civilian casualties.
Across the North Central and Southern theatres, intelligence-led raids in Benue, Taraba, Abia, Cross River, Rivers, Delta and Kogi States led to the recovery of a pump-action shotgun, a double-barrel gun, a Dane gun, a MAC-4 rifle, a locally fabricated pistol, assorted rounds of ammunition, cartridges, knives, communication devices, motorcycles and cash.
The Army said several suspects linked to kidnapping, arms trafficking, drug peddling and impersonation of military personnel were apprehended and handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution.
In the Niger Delta region, anti–oil theft operations uncovered approximately 45,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 16 sacks of illegally refined petroleum products estimated at about 960 litres. Two illegal refining sites, including ovens, reservoirs and crude waste storage facilities, were dismantled.
Additionally, troops rescued kidnapped victims in Kogi State, recovered 58 rustled sheep in Sokoto State and intercepted narcotics while arresting suspected collaborators of criminal gangs.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive, intelligence-driven operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, curbing economic sabotage, protecting civilians and safeguarding critical national assets across the country.
