In a series of coordinated operations, Nigerian Army troops, alongside other security forces, have neutralized several terrorists, apprehended a notorious arms courier linked to a wanted insurgent, and recovered significant arms and ammunition. The operations also led to the rescue of several kidnap victims and the arrest of multiple suspects.
On September 3, 2024, troops deployed in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State raided a terrorist stronghold in the Mandara mountains. Following intense firefights, the terrorists abandoned 24 hostages who were subsequently rescued by the troops. A search of the area yielded 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, an AK-47 rifle magazine, a dane gun, and other items.
In Kaduna State, troops conducted an offensive mission in Kabode village, Kachia Local Government Area, targeting a kidnappers’ den. One criminal was neutralized, and four kidnap victims were rescued, while the remaining suspects fled. The troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, 10 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, six motorcycles, and three mobile phones.
In a separate joint operation, troops and other security agencies launched an offensive in Keyeri Hills and Gidan Dogo areas of Kagarko Local Government Area, Kaduna State. A terrorist arms courier was arrested while transporting weapons in the Gidan Dogo forest. Recovered items included three AK-47 rifles, one Galil rifle, 1,621 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 222 rounds of 7.62 x 36mm ammunition, 138 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two extra AK-47 magazines, and one G3 rifle magazine. Intelligence from the suspect’s arrest led to the capture of eight additional individuals linked to the crime.
In another operation in Plateau State, troops raided a criminal hideout in Riyom Local Government Area, arresting two suspects and seizing two mobile phones and a knife. In Barikin Ladi Local Government Area, troops recovered 64 rustled cattle in Fann village, believed to have been stolen during the Mangu crisis earlier this year.
The Chief of Army Staff commended the troops for their resilience and continued collaboration with security agencies and local communities in the fight against terrorism and criminality.
