Nigerian military forces conducted a nationwide operation over the weekend, targeting terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups across multiple regions. The offensive led to significant losses among insurgents and the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and illegal substances.
According to Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, coordinated strikes were carried out in the Northwest, Northeast, Northcentral, Southsouth, and Southwest regions, neutralizing criminals and rescuing kidnapped victims. Members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the Southeast also faced heavy losses, while oil thieves in the Southsouth and armed robbers in the Southwest were disrupted.
In the Northeast, troops of the 117 Task Force Battalion, with support from local vigilantes and the Civilian Joint Task Force, engaged terrorists in Chibok Local Government, Borno State. The operation resulted in the death of one terrorist and the recovery of an AK-47, ammunition, and magazines. Additional actions by 159 Battalion in Geidam and 192 Battalion in Gwoza Local Government successfully neutralized insurgents and repelled attacks from ISWAP and JAS fighters.
In Adamawa, 115 Task Force Battalion arrested eight suspected cattle rustlers, while 232 Battalion intercepted petroleum smugglers in Mubi South, seizing 19 jerry cans of illicit fuel. Northwest operations included a combined air and ground strike in Katsina, eliminating approximately 15 terrorists, with additional arrests in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kaduna States. Law enforcement recovered cash, mobile phones, and other items from arrested suspects.
Northcentral deployments saw troops recovering stolen property, arms, and kidnapped victims in Benue, Niger, and Plateau States. In the Federal Capital Territory, Guards Brigade units apprehended criminals during a snap operation in Gwagwalada, recovering a stolen vehicle, cash, and mobile devices.
Southsouth operations focused on oil bunkering and drug-related crimes. Soldiers in Rivers State confiscated 1,750 litres of illegally refined petroleum, and NDLEA collaboration in Delta State led to the arrest of multiple drug dealers. In Oshimili South, suspects allegedly linked to Improvised Explosive Device (IED) production were detained.
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In Kogi State, 12 Brigade forces conducted Operation EGWUA A TITE II, neutralizing notorious bandit commander Kachalla Bala and other criminals. The operation, supported by air units and hybrid forces, rescued kidnapped victims, destroyed bandit settlements, and recovered weapons, motorcycles, and ammunition.
The Nigerian Army affirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal networks, ensuring public safety, and supporting the federal government’s efforts in food security and agricultural productivity. Operations continue nationwide with a focus on eliminating armed groups, rescuing victims, and preventing further criminal activities.
Overall, the sustained military campaign demonstrates significant progress in enhancing security across Nigeria, with multiple successes in neutralizing threats, recovering illicit items, and restoring peace in affected communities.
