Nigerian Army Eliminates 11 Terrorists, Detains 64 Suspects in Multi-State Operations

The Nigerian Army has successfully carried out nationwide operations, resulting in the neutralisation of 11 terrorists, the arrest of 64 suspects, the rescue of multiple kidnap victims, and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and stolen livestock across several states between Thursday and Friday.

A source at Army Headquarters in Abuja confirmed that the troops foiled multiple ISWAP and JAS attacks in the North East. Units of the 222 Battalion repelled threats near Alau Dam, seizing weapons and ammunition, while 145 Battalion ambushed insurgents in Kareto, Mobbar Local Government Area, killing eight and recovering eight AK-47 rifles.

In Gwoza Local Government Area, troops of 192 Battalion intercepted terrorist logistics, and 144 Battalion apprehended three suspected suppliers in Adamawa, recovering smuggled items.

The North West also recorded significant successes. Troops of 17 Brigade killed two terrorists at Malali Bridge, Katsina, while 1 Brigade neutralised another terrorist in Shinkafi, Zamfara, recovering firearms, motorcycles, and livestock. Kidnap victims were rescued in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Maitsiga Village, Kankara, Katsina.

Operations in the North Central region included the rescue of three kidnapped persons in Kogi by 126 Battalion, along with targeted air and ground offensives against insurgent movements in Lokoja. In Plateau State, the army arrested a known informant linked to a wanted terrorist leader and an armed militia member.

Further patrols in Kwara led to the seizure of a rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle from insurgents, while Kaduna State troops apprehended 27 suspects in Sabon Tasha and Kakuri, recovering drugs and weapons. In Abuja, Guards Brigade arrested 16 illegal miners, including a Nigerien national and a fake NSCDC operative, seizing motorcycles, generators, narcotics, and mining equipment.

The Army stressed that these coordinated operations demonstrate its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and ensuring the safety of citizens, creating a secure environment for farming, commerce, and socio-economic activities.