Over a span of nine weeks, the armed forces’ troops, as reported by the Defence Headquarters, have effectively neutralized 23 terrorists, apprehended 109 criminals and five kidnappers.
In this timeframe, the operations also led to the arrest of one informant and 22 suspected oil thieves across the nation.
Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed in a statement on Friday that during these missions, the troops successfully rescued 41 hostages who had been kidnapped.
Buba further disclosed that in the North East, a significant development occurred with 231 terrorists and their families surrendering to the troops. This group consisted of 25 adult males, 63 adult females, and 143 children.
The troops’ accomplishments also encompassed the recovery of 41 weapons and 300 various arms, which included 14 AK47 rifles, one AK49 rifle, two AK47 rifles loaded with 7.62mm special ammunition, and one PKT gun.
Additionally, items recovered comprised one LMG, two pump action guns, two locally crafted pistols, three locally crafted rifles, two dane guns, one pistol, and two locally made long barrel guns.
“Additionally, troops recovered one AK47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62mm special, 1 AK47 magazine, one magazine loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62mm special, 239 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, five rounds of 7.62 NATO, 44 rounds of PKT, 5 rounds of 9mm ammo and 6 cartridges.
“Furthermore, troops recovered 13 motorcycle, 22 mobile phones, one bicycle, 10 machete, a pair of camouflage.”
He added that the operations in South-South geopolitical zone resulted in the arrest of 682,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 70,950 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 23,250 litres of DPK.
“All amounting to an estimated sum of N4149.3 million denied to the oil thieves,” the defence spokesman said.
Buba emphasized that the military’s unwavering commitment remains directed towards pursuing and addressing the disruptive factions that are causing instability and insecurity across the nation.
He provided reassurance that the troops are steadfast in their efforts to enhance the safety of citizens and to reinstate nationwide security.
