Nigerian Army Kills Terrorists, Arrests 25 Suspects and Rescues 16 Hostages in Nationwide Operations

Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed scores of terrorists, arrested 25 suspects, and rescued 16 kidnap victims in a series of coordinated operations across different theatres of war.

A reliable source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the offensives also led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, explosives, petroleum products, motorcycles, and assorted illicit drugs.

North East Operations
In Borno and Adamawa States, troops targeted ISWAP/JAS fighters in Kolori, Karumi, and Madagali communities. A key logistics supplier was intercepted in Mafa LGA with 23 cans of petrol concealed in a bag. Soldiers also foiled petrol and fertilizer smuggling in Mubi North, while a suspect in Garkida confessed to involvement in past attacks. Items recovered included one M70AB2 rifle, four magazines, and 150 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.

North West Operations
In Zamfara State, troops of 1 Brigade repelled multiple terrorist attacks in Maradun, Tsafe, and Anka LGAs, rescuing six kidnap victims and seizing several motorcycles. In Kaduna, a notorious kidnap kingpin was captured in Mayir village, Sanga LGA, following intelligence reports.

North Central Operations
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised a violent extremist in Katsina-Ala, Benue State, and rescued 10 abducted passengers along the Kyado–Wukari road. In Kwara, soldiers freed three kidnap victims near Eruku town. In Nasarawa, a drug-laden vehicle was intercepted, with two suspects — including the consignee — arrested.

South East and South South Operations
In Imo State, troops arrested two cultists in Mgbidi, seizing a pistol, phones, and a motorcycle. Soldiers also disrupted IPOB/ESN activities in Orumba North, Anambra, where criminals fled after detonating three improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

In the South South, security forces recovered two double-barrel guns and 27 cartridges. Joint operations with the NDLEA led to the arrest of 19 drug dealers in Delta and Bayelsa States, with seizures of cannabis, tramadol, pentazocine, diazepam, and Canadian loud. In Rivers and Bayelsa, troops seized over 1,200 litres of illegally refined AGO and crude oil. Four suspected kidnappers were also arrested in Oshimili North LGA of Delta State.

Military Assurance
Across the nationwide operations, troops recovered multiple weapons, explosives, IEDs, ammunition, vehicles, petrol, fertilizers, and illicit substances.

The Army source reaffirmed the military’s resolve to sustain pressure on terrorists, kidnappers, and criminal groups across Nigeria, stressing that those who threaten national peace and security will face severe consequences. He assured communities of continued protection to foster farming, economic growth, and the Federal Government’s food security agenda.